Child Mind Institute

Prom night is magical — but it can also come with some big decisions. Every parent dreads the tough conversations, but your teen needs to hear from you more than you know. Talking to them about the tough stuff before the big night gives them the tools to handle whatever comes their way. Here are conversation starters that make those tricky talks a little easier.

We sat down with Orlando Bloom on the Thriving Kids Podcast 🎙️ He opened up about growing up with dyslexia — the struggles with focus and concentration, the workarounds he built for himself, and why every child deserves to find their area of excellence. We also talked movement, mindfulness, nutrition, and sleep as tools for kids navigating attention and learning challenges. Available now wherever you get your podcasts.

Get all of these resources at childmind.org/prom.

In partnership with @macys, we're giving teens and parents expert-backed tools to navigate prom season. Because prom isn't just about what you wear — it's about how you feel. 🪩🎊

Orlando Bloom joins the newest episode of the Thriving Kids Podcast. He talks about growing up with dyslexia and the quiet, creative workarounds he used on his own, before today's evidence-based tools existed. 🎙️ Watch or listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

Myth: giving independence means stepping back completely. Fact: teens do better with support that matches their responsibility level.

The prom countdown has begun. It's one of the most memorable nights of their lives — and a little preparation goes a long way. Use these conversation guides to open the door on everything from finances to safety, so your teen feels supported every step of the way. This guide was created in partnership with @macys, to help parents and teens get prom-ready.

Myth: picky eating is always defiance. Fact: for some kids, it’s sensitivity, anxiety, or comfort. Calm structure beats power struggles.

Myth: consequences are the only tool. Fact: routines, warnings, and predictability can prevent problems before they need consequences.

Myth: you must control every behavior. Fact: picking fewer, clearer battles can reduce stress and improve consistency.

Myth: talking once fixes it. Fact: kids often need many short conversations over time as questions and feelings come back.

Myth: giving certainty is kindness. Fact: with OCD, certainty-seeking can grow; supporting tolerance of uncertainty can be kinder long-term.

Myth: pointing out every error helps kids improve. Fact: too much correction can increase fear of mistakes; small, targeted feedback is often easier to use.

Myth: yelling shows you mean it. Fact: calmer, consistent follow-through often changes behavior more than intensity.

Myth: if kids can do it, they will do it. Fact: initiation is a real skill; some kids need prompts and structure to begin.

Myth: confident kids never feel awkward. Fact: many kids learn confidence by practicing awkward moments safely, with support.