Article

In wake of family tragedy, The Family Tree restates the importance of identifying warning signals of stress that may be triggered after evaluation of student performance.

Baltimore, MD, May 16, 2008 - In 2006, The Family Tree alerted Marylanders to the increased dangers of child abuse and family violence linked to the issuance of report cards.  Since 2006, The Family Tree has provided a program to more then 35 schools to help parents improve their children's educational performance and build awareness about stress associated with school performance. The program entitled "Achieving Success Together," includes practical guides to assist children on how to complete homework assignments, deal with holiday stress, recognize and address bullying, and avoid a caregiver's (or their own) violent reaction to perceived failures, especially around report card time.

"The recent family tragedy associated with a student's school performance in our community is heart-breaking and we extend our deepest sympathy to their family and friends," said Pat Cronin, executive director of The Family Tree. "Even under the best circumstances, adolescence is a volatile time.  Families need information so they can identify warning signals suggesting they need to seek help raising their children."

Cronin said The Family Tree's Achieving Success Together Program is a valuable tool designed to help families and school professionals manage the stress associated with the evaluation of students' school performance. 

The "Achieving Success Together" program encompasses 35 schools in Baltimore City, Baltimore, Caroline, Charles and Prince George's counties.   If you would like to support Achieving Success Together or for more information, please contact Mary Francioli at 410-889-2300.

The following is a list of suggestions on how to sustain a strong relationship with your teen.  

• Listen when your teen wants to talk. Help them think through situations and come up with their own solutions.
• No matter what the issue, take a moment to calm down and communicate clearly.
• Be willing to compromise.
• Choose your words carefully to maintain their self esteem.
• Be realistic about your teen's capabilities.
• Leave the past behind, and deal with the situation in front of you.
• Be aware of any changes in your teen's life - new friends, change in school performance, or a change in sleep patterns.
• Assert authority in dangerous situations.
• Plan regular meals with your teen - it is a great way to understand what is going on in their life.