E-Community Activity: Working with Adults

Send this message to the e-community of protégés and mentors.

Subject: Working with adults

Adults can help young people achieve success. However, it is a two-way street. The actions of young people can either help or hinder the ability of adults to help them. Statements of advice to teens from successful people with disabilities are listed below. Think about whether you agree or disagree with each statement.

• In dealing with your parents, try to look at both your point of view and your parents' point of view. I know that this is hard to do.
• Always stay calm in a disagreement. Impossible, right? Yes, but it's worth a try.
• If you and your parents get in a fight, wait until they cool off and then tell them that you still love them. Trust me, this works.
• Allow time to really see what the adults are like, and then, if you feel okay with them, go ahead and open up to them. The results may be better than you may think!
• Positive relationships with adults can provide you with encouragement and help you build confidence and self-esteem.

What advice would you give other teens about what THEY can do to develop positive relationships with adults?