It is important for teens to understand what their responsibilities are compared to a teacher’s so that they can respond appropriately to authority when they work in the real world. In college and on the job, not being able to differentiate between your responsibilities and those of others can cause one many problems. Have students make a list of what they must take care of and what you, the teacher must do, i.e. do homework vs. assign homework.

Bullying is dealt with during the elementary years, but sometimes we forget that it also occurs for teens. Frequently it moves to the digital world. Have students share negative comments they have seen on social media and talk about better ways to share feelings. Set some guidelines, such as not using names so that it doesn’t turn into a bashing and gossiping session.

Schools and communities have many opportunities for service. Teach teens to help others by finding learning-service opportunities where they can use their talents and interests on a daily or weekly basis. Helping in the cafeteria, washing the front of lockers, painting over graffiti, help improve the appearance of the school and instill pride. Serving food in a homeless shelter or sorting used clothing for a service organization teaches caring for others.

Teens encounter some big problems themselves and also must deal with their peer groups problems, such as depression, abuse, substance abuse, and many others. Help students learn to navigate using role playing in various scenarios. Also help them know when to report and who to report to.

Teens practicing one-minute lessons on social skills such as proper etiquette, appropriate and inappropriate touch, and the importance of facial expressions and body language. This will help them in their professional lives and in college, as people often judge us by how we look and act.

There are many personality quizzes online. Have students work alone to determine their personality types, and then place them in groups so that they can work on these skills. Offer a variety of projects and/or websites to help them.

Teens spend a great deal of time on their phones and computers and texting has taken the place of verbal communication. Challenge teens to have real-world conversations explaining their points of view and opinions about character traits and social issues. It is important teens learn how to dialog thoughtfully and without being overly emotional.

Attendance and tardiness continue to be an educational and workplace challenge. It is important to be present in class or in the workplace and only be absent if it is necessary. Being late and absent gives the wrong first impression and does not work well for building strong, positive, and trusting relationships.