Written by: Wood Creek Academy

The right therapeutic program can change your child’s life permanently.

Finding the right help for troubled teens can be a difficult feat if you know little to nothing about the types of therapeutic programs out there. This guide will explain the different types of programs that you can send your child to so you can find one that suits your personal preference.

Boarding Schools

Boarding schools are designed to house teenagers that aren’t suited for standard high schools. Children will stay at dorms and are subjected to a curriculum system that covers the basic state education requirements. This can be a solid option for your child if he or she doesn’t necessarily fit in with their current school and is acting irrationally on a continuous basis.

Wilderness Programs

Stepping away from the education system, therapeutic wilderness programs offer something that many troubled teen programs do not – a natural form of therapy. For example, these programs take your child on hikes in the mountains, with other groups, by professional guides to teach them how to maintain accountability. This style of therapy is guided mainly by the natural healing characteristics of the terrain. Students will learn how to make a fire, make their own dinner, help others in need, and other actions that will help them in the real world setting.

Boot Camps

Militarized boot camps are exactly what they sound like. Drill instructors essentially “whip” students into shape through a series of rigorous militarized activities. A rather controversial program, these programs teach children how to behave appropriately and obey their families without rebelling. Keep in mind that this can have a substantial impact on a child’s mental health. However, if you feel that this trumps a standard school for troubled teens, then it’s important that you understand the limitations of this programs beforehand.

Holidays are something children look forward to, however going back to school after a long break can be a difficult adjustment for some children. Here are some useful tips that will get your child prepared for a new school term.

Re-Establish school routines – In the last few weeks before school starts, get your child to wake up and get dressed at the usual time they would if they had school. You could plan morning activities, which will help your child get used to eating breakfast and leaving the house at the same time.

Nurture independence – Ask your child to get their school material ready for their new term.

Create a launch pad – Create a spot where your child can place their backpack and lunch boxes for when they leave home and return. This will avoid your child from scrabbling out of the door in the morning and forgetting something.

Set up a time and place for homework – Have a designated quiet spot in your home for your child to study and complete homework. If you have a young child, it is a good idea to designate some time to help them complete their assignments.

After-school plans – Since school ends before, parents finish work; plan out where your child will go after school in done. There are many after school programs via your child’s school, local YMCA or a boys or girls club.