The troubles that kids face can stem from things as serious as suffering domestic abuse and behavioral challenges that result in them becoming juvenile offenders to mental and physical health challenges. What parents need to remember is that there are resources available to help, whether they're at the schools, health care facilities, law enforcement agencies or nonprofit organizations. As with most issues involving kids, the first place to start is usually the schools, which are usually aware of agencies, individuals or programs in the community that can help.
Summer Camps
Whether your kid's troubles stem from behavioral problems, learning disabilities or conditions that include ADHD or obesity, summer camps are available to help him deal with his challenges. CRC Health Group, a large provider of adult and youth treatment and education programs, notes that "parents will often see dramatic changes in their teen's attitude, behavior and motivation after a therapeutic wilderness camp or other alternative summer camps." These camps have specially trained instructors and counselors and keep the ratio of adults to kids high to make sure kids get the attention they need.
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Big Brothers Big Sisters match up adults with children who may not have a father or mother as a permanent, positive fixture in the kids' everyday life. Although you don't have to be a troubled kid to get matched up with a volunteer "Big," the organization does have a long history of steering at-risk kids away from trouble. An International Child & Youth Care Network article noted that in a Wyoming county, far fewer kids who had gotten into trouble, but then participated in the Progressive Youth Program, which partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters, got into trouble again.
Local Law Enforcement
Your local police department or sheriff's office may have a number of programs that can help kids who have entered the juvenile justice program or who are at risk. Such programs may center on athletics or community service opportunities, but there is a track record in many communities of similar projects working quite well. For example, in 2010 a Royal Canadian Mounted Police office in Vancouver started a program of teaching at-risk youths martial arts to instill discipline and peace. A call to your local police or sheriff's office may reveal a list of several programs that can help your kids.
Extracuricular Activities
Channeling one child's aggression into sports and another kid's conflicted feelings into art or music may help keep them in school and provide a venue where those kids can find acceptance and success. A coach or compassionate and inspiring teacher may be just the person to reach a child in a way a parent or counselor cannot. And if it is the coach or teacher seeking out the student, rather than a parent pushing the student into an activity, the kid may be more responsive.
Pediatrician
If your kid is involved with drugs or has some other difficult challenge in his life, his pediatrician or another health care provider may know of treatment programs or other options in your community. There may be several programs in your town, but relying on the opinion of someone who knows your child or at least knows you well enough to be honest, will usually suggest some place that has a proven track record of success.
