Connection to The Great Debaters

          I believe there is a good  connect between the two because for one when Henry left  the debate team because of how the team had to change there whole topic it started to stress him out and even more because the rest of the team was depending on him. An other example for one who may runaway would be when junior followed Denzel to the barn meeting with the blacks and whites it was not really not running away but he did not tell anyone where he was going.

Tips That May Help Your Child To Not Runaway

Spend time with your teen and listen-this is the best way to prevent them from feeling alone and insecure.

• Take your teen seriously- do not dismiss their worries and fears.
• Be firm on central issues while bending on less critical issues.
• Permit expression of ideas, even if they are different from your own.
• Teens have mood swings- don’t take them too personally.
• Talk with teachers and other parents if you are worried. They may have helpful insights and observations.
• If you tell your teen that he or she can talk to about anything, mean it. Help from outside sources and counseling professionals can help you become more comfortable talking to your teen about sensitive subjects

Possible Solutiosn to Runaways

• Services that can help prevent a runaway episode by discussing concerns or warning signs you have identified and by directing you to the appropriate services.
• A "time-out" or cooling off period to reduce tensions when family conflicts reach a boiling point.
• Local and national resources that can help you contact those that could be of most assistance if your teen leaves home.
• Family counseling directly or through referrals to other professionals when the youth returns home.

                               Things Parents can Do to Help



• Remember what it was like to be a teenager and acknowledge that you and your teen are in this together.
• When your teen needs to talk, give your full attention. Turn off or put away any distractions.
• Listen to what they have to say, repeating or restating what they say so that they know that you heard them.
• Speak in a calm voice and try not to interrupt.
• Avoid yelling, sarcasm, threats and whining.
• Do not think that your answer is the only answer.
• If things get heated, take a break and return to the discussion when you both have calmed down.
• Do not try to get "the last word".