How to Pick a Boot Camp for Teens

The American Academy of Pediatrics -- on its HealthyChildren.org website -- notes that parents should use short-term consequences and confrontation types of discussion when trying to correct a teen's unwanted behaviors. That said, if your teen is out of control, aggressive or is in trouble with the law, you may need a more extreme measure to get through to her. Boot camps provide a structured environment, strict discipline and the therapy that your child may need to turn her life around and get back on the right track. Choosing a boot camp is an individual decision that includes both your family's and child's needs.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ask a professional, such as your child's pediatrician or psychologist, to give you a list of boot camps near you.

    • 2

      Investigate the qualifications and any possible problems with the boot camps in your region. Avoid boot camps that have spotty records, complaints from parents or use "tough love" types of tactics that are physically or psychologically abusive.

    • 3

      Ask what type of training the staff members have, including advanced educational degrees and specialized instruction in what is -- and isn't -- child abuse and neglect.

    • 4

      Assess what your child's needs are or get an evaluation from a psychological expert. Choose the specific boot camp program that treats your teen's actual issue. For example, if your child is dealing with substance abuse issues as well as delinquency, he may need a specialty program that provides counseling and treatment for adolescent addicts.

    • 5

      Visit each boot camp you are considering. Ask for a tour, review the living quarters and observe the daily schedule in action if possible.

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