Admission to high school is not easy. And even if you’re the parent watching over them, it’s not easy for you either. Even if you want to say the right thing, you’re not necessarily sure what it is. So much has changed since we were 15, with cell phones, apps, and the social landscape, that it’s easy to feel like our daughters will ignore us before we’ve even finished a sentence.
But the point is, some of the truth hasn’t changed. No matter what year it is or what social media platform she’s on (apparently kids are still “snapping”), one thing has always been true and always will be true for a girl navigating the world.
A viral video posted by @meshmom45 puts these five truths into words. Here’s what every girl needs to know before entering high school.
Attention from an older boy is not a compliment. That’s a red flag.
“If a man chooses a woman his own age and continues to pursue someone younger than him, ask yourself why,” says the OP. “The right person won’t rush you, pressure you, or ask you to grow up faster than you’re ready. Trust the adults who love you,” she added. “They saw something you haven’t seen yet.”
People who make you uncomfortable because of their boundaries are not your friends.
OP breaks it down clearly. “The girl who says you’re being dramatic. The boyfriend who gets mad when you say no.” The friend who keeps pushing even after you’ve already answered. People who care about you will respect your boundaries. Those who don’t will keep trying. Please know the difference. ”
The internet is forever.
“Everything you send can be saved, shared, forwarded, and screen recorded,” the OP warns.
“Before you post or send anything, ask yourself: Is it okay for everyone at school to see this? Maybe it will happen someday. ”
Always have an exit plan.
“Go with someone you trust. Keep your phone charged. Be careful with what you drink. Listen to your gut. “If something doesn’t feel right, walk away,” says the OP. “I don’t owe anyone an explanation. You don’t owe anyone an explanation.” “I’m going out” is a complete sentence. ”
Please set up a PIN with your family as soon as possible.
OP recommends that the family have one simple “code word” that would be more meaningful.
“It means ‘come and get me.’ No questions, no lectures, no penalties. Just help. Most teenagers don’t end up in bad situations because they don’t know better,” the OP explains. “They’re stuck because they’re afraid to ask for help. Let’s eliminate that fear before they need it.”
As parents, we don’t have to have all the answers, but we can offer advice to help get our kids on the right path. Whether you want to set a code word for tonight’s dinner or send this video to your daughter to send a simple message saying, “Hey, this reminded me of you,” it’s all you need.
