Adolescence is a time of big changes. Teens are no longer children but not yet adults, and this transitional stage can bring strong emotions and new social challenges.
Emotional Characteristics:

• Can feel caught between childhood and adulthood; may feel lonely or misunderstood
• Peer relationships become very important
• Sensitive to criticism
• Puberty may bring emotional changes, anxiety, and self-consciousness
• May feel grief over leaving childhood behind and worry about future challenges
• Often believe others have never experienced their feelings

Social Characteristics:

• Developing identity through experiences with peers
• May take unnecessary risks as they explore limits
• Beginning to make and follow through on personal decisions
• Exploring talents and discovering areas for success

Instructional Focus:

• Act as a mentor to support teens through this transition
• Praise effort to keep them engaged, even if they struggle initially
• Offer opportunities to test limits in a safe, controlled environment
• Encourage independence while promoting interdependence within group activities
• Provide guidance, choice, and practice opportunities to help teens build confidence and responsibility

This approach helps teens navigate their development while fostering skill, confidence, and enjoyment in skateboarding.