Key Takeaways:

• Adolescence is a naturally introspective time; however, guiding teens to look beyond themselves can enhance empathy.
• Getting involved in causes that matter to teens transforms community service from a chore into a meaningful activity.
• Small, local acts of kindness can significantly affect the community and foster empathy in teens.
• Integrating service as a family activity strengthens family bonds and emphasises the importance of community involvement.
• Raising compassionate adults involves encouraging teens to ask, "How can I help?" rather than just "What do I want?"

Notable Quotes:

• "Adolescence is a time of introspection, and it's normal to be focused on yourself as a teenager."
• "Helping others builds confidence, increases empathy, and gives our teens the sense that they can make a difference in the world."
• "Ask your teen, 'What problem in the world bothers you? Or who would you like to help if you could?'"
• "One of the biggest myths is that making a difference needs huge commitment and huge effort."
• "In a world that so often encourages our teens to focus on themselves… we're trying to raise compassionate adults."

Resources:

• Follow Collett Smart on Instagram and Facebook.
• Learn more on Collett Smart’s website: www.collettsmart.com

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.