5 Classic Time-Tested Ideas to Help Troubled Youth

Written by: Woodcreek Academy

Many problems in adulthood can trace themselves back to a troubled childhood. As such, it’s incredibly important to mentor the youth and get at what’s really driving their behavior. Some tactics are more effective than others when it comes to helping troubled youth. Here are just a few of the more effective approaches out there.

Build Something from Scratch

Nothing instills confidence like knowing you’ve put together a project by yourself from scratch. Whether it’s refurbishing an old car, assembling a deck or building a boat, a construction project teaches many lessons. Even if the finished project has no real market value, the achievement it represents will be worth its weight in gold.

Good, Old-Fashioned Sports

Besides the health benefits, participation in team or individual endurance sports can be a positive influence in many less-tangible ways. For one thing, athletic achievement boosts confidence in ways that other activities simply don’t. Furthermore, sports often force troubled youth to see themselves as part of a team and makes them less likely to be anti-social.

Wilderness Therapy Programs

Sometimes, a radical experience is required to get through to particularly wayward youth. In these situations, wilderness therapy programs could be just the ticket. Taking a troubled youth out of their element and putting them in a new environment gives you a much better chance of identifying their problems and figuring out appropriate, long-lasting solutions.

School for Troubled Youth

If a long-term solution is required, a boarding school might be far more effective. For instance, Christian boarding schools for boys have been proven to impart a lasting change in attitude for troubled youth. While the religion portion isn’t necessary, the reality is that parochial education is statistically superior to the public variety.

Volunteer with a Good Charity

Troubled youth have a hard time feeling like they fit in, or like they are a part of something bigger than themselves. Community service and volunteering can teach kids the value of putting others first, and instill a strong work ethic with a sense of purpose. When youths feel like they’re a part of something bigger, radical changes in outlook and attitude can be achieved.

No One-Size-Fits-All Solution

A school for troubled youth is no silver bullet for youth dysfunction. Shipping kids off won’t do much good without constant effort and guidance. What troubled youth need to succeed most is the feeling that someone cares at the end of the day.