Parents, step into minds of teenagers

If you want to explain teenage behavior - take a tour of their brains.

Adolescence prompts the brain to go through "explosive new growth," according to recent studies, and veteran psychologist Michael Bradley will help parents by updating their child's neurological road map.

The national speaker will present "Yes, your teen is crazy: Loving your kid without losing your mind" at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16 in the auditorium at Glenbard West High School, 670 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn.

Bradley provides an "awareness of what teens are up against," explained Gilda Ross, student and community projects coordinator for Glenbard High School District 87.

"I think of reality television, which is anything but reality," Ross said. "Teens are bombarded with all these images of instant gratification. Instant media gives our teens values of instant gratifications."

What Bradley will help explain to parents are ways they help ground their teens and present an actual view of reality.

The 90-minute presentation will touch on:

• How the enigmatic teen brain works and doesn't work.

• The 10 commandments of parenting your teen.

• The three top ways to earn your kids' respect.

• The three top ways to destroy it.

• Drug do's and don'ts.

• Sex and dating - what every parent needs to know.

Bradley is a licensed clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience working with adolescents.

The free session is geared toward parents of high school, as well as middle school, students. Any parent living in DuPage County is welcome to attend.

There is an early "get acquainted" coffee at 6:30 p.m. in the foyer outside the auditorium. For more information contact Ross at (630) 942-7573.

If you go

What: Psychologist Michael Bradley presents, "Yes, your teen is crazy: Loving your kid without losing your mind"

When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16

Where: Glenbard West High School auditorium, 670 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn

Details: Call Gilda Ross at (630) 942-7573