If you have been thinking about sending your son to a boys’ boarding school for troubled teens in Colorado, you might want to review your options before you make a final decision. The methods that some schools use are controversial at best and have not necessarily proven effective in addressing teen behavioral issues.
The following tips can help you determine which option and school are best for you and your teen.
1. One size of school does not fit all children. Different schools offer different benefits, depending on numerous factors, including your child’s personality and the type of services the school offers. A boys’ boarding school for troubled teens in Colorado might not be the best solution for your son.
2. Different children adapt in unique ways to boarding schools. Boarding schools address the needs of all types of children, including troubled teens. Your child might adjust better at a certain type of school.
3. Educate yourself about the four types of boarding schools for troubled teens.
People generally think of therapeutic schools when considering boarding schools, which offer therapy, combined with academics, for troubled teens. Their services include family, group and individual counseling sessions. Alternative schools serve niche populations along with an emphasis on a college preparatory curriculum. Like the name implies, college preparatory schools focus on rigorous academics to prepare the student for advanced education opportunities. Junior boarding schools cater to middle-school children and offer a structured setting for their learning experience.
4. Boarding school can strengthen the family unit. Traditionally, families physically live in the same home, no matter the situation. But boarding school can actually develop a safe and strong emotional and academic environment that helps create a successful teen. Whether for academic reasons or for sports opportunities or for counseling, the child’s needs might be best met at a school specifically tailored for them.
5. Parents choose a boarding school for various reasons. Their child might struggle socially, academically, need individualized attention or need a slower pace. Other children can benefit from the specialized services offered by a boys’ boarding school for troubled teens in Colorado, such as behavioral issues, addiction intervention, trauma or family dynamics. Some find that a setting with others who are dealing with the same issues or those who are focusing on arts or athletics helps them identify with those in a similar situation.
6. While a change of location without intervention might not help your child, combining a therapeutic approach with a new environment can make all the difference in your son’s academics.
7. Retain an educational consultant to investigate boarding schools for you. He or she can bring their background and experience to the table and can even visit schools in order to see firsthand what the environment is like.
8. Be aware of how a boarding school differs from a traditional school. In general, they provide additional academic help and much smaller class sizes. Other considerations include:
Educators who live on campus Study halls Personalized attention A diverse student population Easy access to resources and An environment conducive to learning.
9. Conduct in depth research, including the following:
The number of boarders vs. the number of international students The number of students accepted into university The teaching style emphasized at the school, such as lectures, discussions and projects and The average class size.
If at all possible, visit the school before enrolling your child to ensure that it is the right fit for you.
10. Boarding school is not a reflection on parenting skills. The parent is simply giving their child an opportunity that he might not have received at a traditional school.
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