Parent Power
Guidelines for Parents of middle school youth
About this booklet
Planet Youth helps young people thrive by listening to Grade 10 students in every two years. Their insights guide us in creating a healthier future.
This booklet shares what we’ve learned and celebrates the power of parents — offering simple, effective ways to support your middle schooler as they grow into confident, healthy teens.
Family Time
This was the second Planet Youth survey, and it brought some encouraging news about family life and how teenagers relate to their parents. A remarkable amount of teens said they find it easy to receive care and warmth from their parents and that they spend a lot of time together.
As kids grow into teenagers, keeping communication open and strong becomes even more important. Showing interest in their daily lives helps them feel supported and understood.
Instead of the usual “How was your day?”, try asking more thoughtful questions like:
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What was the best part of your day?
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Was there anything that didn’t go so well?
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Did you see anyone do something kind today?
Spending quality time together—like sharing meals, doing activities, or holding family meetings—creates natural opportunities to talk and listen. These moments help build stronger connections with our teens.
Screen Time Guidelines
The latest Planet Youth survey showed that many of our young people are spending 3 or more hours a day on social media. That’s a lot! Research tells us that too much screen time—especially for girls —can lead to increased symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Experts recommend that teens spend no more than 1 hour a day on social media, and no more than 2 hours total of recreational screen time.
Too much time on screens can:
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Take away from homework and hobbies
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Affect sleep and focus
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Harm mental health over time
What can parents do?
Kids learn by watching us! Here are a few simple ways to set a good example:
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Have screen-free times—like during meals, before bed, or during family time
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Use timers or app limits to manage screen use
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Talk openly about why balance is important Starting these habits early—like at the beginning of middle school— makes it easier to stick with them as your child grows.
*”Screen time” refers to time spent with any screen, including smart phones, tablets, television, video games, computers or wearable technology.
Bedtime Guidelines
The Planet Youth survey showed that more than half of our young people aren’t getting enough sleep—and that’s a big deal. Sleep is essential for teens because their bodies and brains are growing and changing fast.
*Suggested Bedtimes
Grade 6 & 7 9:00PM​​
Grade 8 9:30PM
Grade 9 10:00PM
*Based on 7am wake up time
Many young people find it hard to fall asleep, and one reason can be too much screen time before bed. Experts recommend turning off screens at least an hour before bedtime to help the brain wind down and support healthier sleep habits.
The Importance of Sleep
Sleep plays a huge role in their growth, mood, and overall wellbeing.
When teens get enough good-quality sleep, they’re more likely to:
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Wake up feeling refreshed
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Stay positive throughout the day
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Handle stress better
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Have fewer mood swings
But when they don’t get enough sleep, everything feels harder. It can affect their physical and mental health, make school more challenging, and lower their confidence.
How to Help Your Teen Sleep Better:
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Create a calm, comfortable sleep environment
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Stick to a regular bedtime routine
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No screen time at least an hour before bed
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Cut back on caffeine (like energy drinks and pop)
It’s normal for teens to feel tired sometimes, and their sleep patterns can be a bit unpredictable. But if your child is always exhausted and struggling with daily tasks, it’s a good idea to check in with a healthcare provider.
Interests, Hobbies & Sports
As teens grow, it’s important to support their involvement in structured, supervised activities they enjoy.
While sports are great, not every teen is into them—and that’s okay! Hobbies like music, art, or volunteering help build confidence, social skills, and emotional strength.
These kinds of activities also reduce the chances of risky behavior, like substance use. Helping your teen stay engaged in something meaningful can make a big difference in their health and happiness.
Substance use and parents
The teen years are a time of major growth, and the brain is still developing—making it more sensitive to alcohol and drugs. What teens experience now can shape their future health and habits.
As a parent or caregiver, your influence is powerful. Here are some ways to support your teen:
Building Connection Without Substances
As teens grow, the simple, everyday moments you share can have a big impact. Try weaving in fun, substance-free activities like family game nights, movie evenings, or weekend outings. These experiences help build trust, connection, and lasting memories—while showing that joy doesn’t need alcohol or drugs.
Keep the Conversation Going
You don’t need a big “talk” to discuss drugs and alcohol. Use everyday situations to start small, honest conversations. Stay curious, not judgmental—it helps build trust.
Be Real, Not Rigid
Teens may come across alcohol or drugs. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on helping them make informed, safer choices.
Create a Safe Space
Keep alcohol, prescription meds, and other substances out of reach—even into the teen years. And when you’re done with medications, return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.
Nicotine
Most cigarettes and vapes contain nicotine—a highly addictive substance that’s especially harmful to teens. It can change how a teen’s brain works, making it harder to focus, manage emotions, think clearly, and solve problems.
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Cannabis
Cannabis can affect memory and learning in teens. It may also increase feelings of anxiety and depression, especially with regular use.
Alcohol
Many teens see alcohol as the least harmful substance —often because it’s more accepted by adults. But drinking at a young age can interfere with brain development and increase the risk of alcohol problems later in life.
Start the Conversation Early
Many young people try substances like alcohol, cigarettes, vapes, or cannabis as early as middle school. If you think your child might be using, try to stay calm and talk with them openly—just like you would with any other concern.
You don’t have to have all the answers. If you need support, help is available. Call 211 or visit 211.ca to find local resources and guidance.
Dial 911 for emergencies
Dial 988 for crisis line
Dial 211 or visit 211.ca to connect with resources available in your community
We respectfully acknowledge that New Brunswick is situated on the unceded and unsurrendered territories of the Wolastoqey, Mi'gmaw, and Peskotomuhkati peoples. We seek to repair and rebuild meaningful relationships with Indigenous peoples and honour these lands which hold the hopes of future generations.
