3 Topics for Teens
Do you work with teens? Have you ever been asked to present to a class of high school students? Teens can be a tough audience, but the information you share might end up making a big impact on their health and wellness.
Here are three potential topics that are relevant to teenagers, along with facts and recommendations for education materials/resources that will make your job easier.
#1: Sleep
- The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that teens sleep 8–10 hours/day.
- According to the CDC, about 7 out of 10 teens don’t get enough sleep on school nights.
- Common Sense Media reports that 29% of teen smartphone owners say they’ve been woken up by their phones during the night by a call, text, or notification.
Resources:
#2: Physical Activity- Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition recommends at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity for youth up to age 17.
- American Heart Association says that only about 1 in 4 high school students get the recommended hour a day of physical activity.
- Common Sense Media reports that American teens spend an average of nearly 7.5 hours/day in front of screens (not including homework or school). (That was in 2019 -- it’s probably worse for 2020!)
Resources:
- While a recent CDC/FDA report shows that teen tobacco use is down, nearly 1 in 4 high school students still use tobacco products.
- E-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among middle and high school students.
Resources:
Hollis Bass, MEd, RD, LD
