Parents Make The Difference
Parents Make the Difference is a study designed to help Edgerton students succeed. Funded by Partners in Prevention and the UW School of Medicine, this study seeks to learn from Edgerton parents about how students experience success. Students in 6th and 9th, who are transitioning to a new school, face tough challenges academically, socially, and emotionally. Our goal is to hold discussions that identify the type of information that can be helpful for parents of young students and the best ways for parents to receive that information. Parents are the most influential persons in the lives of youth, so as part of this study, we learn how to share helpful information with each other.
Since the beginning of the study in 2009, 170 Edgerton parents have participated. Here are some comments that parents have voiced about the study:
- “I have changed my parenting behavior because I now have more knowledge of teen brain development.”
- “I am more aware of how I talk to my teens about alcohol use, and more aware of how my attitude affects their attitude toward drinking.”
- “I am more aware of openings in conversations that have provided the opportunity to have a clear discussion about drug and alcohol use.”
- “Even though it is a significant time commitment, the information provided is well worth the time put in.”
- “The study is very informative and helps you review your knowledge of parenting and communication skills as well as brings current info about drugs and alcohol to parents.”
- “The video on brain development should be seen by all teenagers and parents of teens.”
- “The study was a great opportunity to get the most up to date information on what our local youth are experiencing. I also gained facts and strategies to promote positive choices with my children.”
- “I am more aware of effective ways I can communicate with my children.”
- “By participating in this study I gained valuable resources that have helped me through difficult situations over the last few months.”
- “I was blown away by the brain development facts and it caused me to reflect on my teenage and early adult usage, and look at what I should be saying to my teen about my use.”
- “I realized my husband and I had never discussed what we expected of our teens in relation to drug and alcohol use. We assumed it was just known. We have had great discussions with each other and with our teens about our expectations and the consequences that would follow if expectations are not met.”
- “I really enjoyed the activities provided to encourage family bonding. We have enjoyed asking each other the questions on long trips, or even just over dinner.”
- “I realized I needed to spend more time truly listening to my teen. We now communicate so much better.”
- “I have a better understanding of the developmental stage my teen is in. It has helped me to support her knowing what is going on developmentally.”
- “The study opens your eyes. It made me realize that even though all the pressure around us says to let your child become independent, this study reminds you that the teens are still too young to succumb to the pressure.”
- “I have become more aware of my child’s friends parents and their attitudes. I have spent more time talking to those parents before letting my child go to their home.”
For more information about this study please contact Abbie Ring at abbie.partners@sbcglobal.net or call Kate Baldwin at (608) 758-1844.