The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens, accounting for more than one in three deaths in this age group. In 2008, nine teens ages 16 to 19 died every day from motor vehicle injuries. The risk of motor vehicle crashes is higher among 16- to
Read moreIn our previous blog, we talked about the basics of teen dating: when teens should begin dating, how to talk to your teen about dating, and the rules for helping our children successfully navigate this developmental milestone. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, sometimes things can go wrong. In this blog, we will discuss teen dating violence. What is dating violence?
Read moreIn the United States, 12.8% of all fatal traffic crashes were alcohol-related, and 40% of that number involved teens driving while drinking alcohol. Car accidents are the number one killer of adolescents and many of those accidents involve alcohol. Surprisingly, a recent study (ScienceDaily, Feb. 18) reported that the rate of alcohol-related fatal car crashes has risen among some populations
Read moreGangs are a scary phenomenon in our nation. They are becoming more prevalent, increasingly violent, and more sophisticated in their crime. The FBI reports, “About 20,000 violent street gangs, motorcycle gangs, and prison gangs with approximately 1 million members are criminally active in the U.S. today. Many are sophisticated and well organized; all use violence to control neighborhoods and boost
Read moreOccasionally we see chilling reminders of teenage violence. We might watch the news about a school shooting or see evidence of gangs or hear about a bullying incident. Parents and teachers cringe at these sad stories, but many of us feel powerless to help or feel that this problem is uncommon or won’t happen in our area. Middle Earth wants
Read moreIt could be argued that no invention has had a more significant impact on our youth than the Internet. But with power comes responsibility, and it’s important that we impart some on teens. Last week, we explored some ideas for keeping youth safe from online predators. This week, we’ll provide some information on online bullying and the problems of posting
Read moreWho can argue against the benefits of the Internet? It expands our education and world in so many ways and allows us to share resources and ideas with people that have the same interests. Unfortunately, it can also expose children to unwanted information and danger. Middle Earth is going to explore Internet Safety in a two-part series. In this first
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