Steering Kids Away from Youth Violence

Another child lost his life to gun violence in Omaha last night.

That headline is far too familiar in cities across the country. These headlines aren’t just limited to inner-cities, thanks in large part to the alarming spread of gang activity.

What can you do to protect your child?

First, understand why kids join gangs. Research consistently shows that youth who join gangs feel like they don’t belong. Maybe they struggle in school or lack close friendships. Maybe they come home to an empty house and feel isolated and alone. For whatever reason, these kids are looking to belong to something that offers them something more than what they are getting.

A lot of the children we work with at Boys Town are kids who didn’t belong. Many of them struggled academically, some got into trouble and others had no family support. Now, they’ve got a support system of people who will make sure they go to school and who put the kids’ needs first. Boys Town’s research-proven methods help these kids feel a part of something bigger than just themselves.

As a parent, you are the biggest difference-maker in your child’s life. Get involved and make sure they understand they belong to something special, something that can’t be replaced by the “high” of violence. Pray with and for your child to strengthen them spiritually. Take them to your place of worship and discuss your values. Take the time to form their moral core so that they know what is right and wrong.

There are helpful tips on Parenting.org^SM that can help you stay connected with your children. Know who their friends are and what they are doing after school. Check their cell phone history and online activity to see who and what they’ve been texting. We need to be conscious and watchful parents to keep our children safe. Their privacy is a small price to pay for their futures.

I know your kids will roll their eyes at you or complain you’re treating them like a baby when you ask for details about the happenings in their daily lives, but stay strong. Being a tough parent is always easier than losing a child.

God’s Blessings,

Father Steven Boes,
Boys Town National Executive Director