A better way to support your teens as they go back to school

In this episode of Life Kit, host Marielle Segarra and reporter Andy Tegel interview psychologist Lisa Damour about the emotional challenges teens and preteens face when returning to school. Damour provides advice for parents on how to communicate with their children about difficult topics, manage expectations around social media, and support their emotional well-being. Key takeaways include letting teens initiate conversations, embracing the eye roll as a sign of independence, focusing on safety rather than punishment when setting boundaries, and prioritizing sleep and routines for a smoother transition back to school. The episode emphasizes the importance of listening, offering space, and validating teens' feelings as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence.