Inquirer Academy will conduct “QuaranTeen: A Virtual Mindfulness Workshop for Teenagers to be Self-Aware, Confident, Empathic and Resilient,” July 14, 16 and 20. Though not strict with age, the virtual workshop is designed for ages 13-15 years old.

There will also be a virtual workshop titled “Speak Your Mind: Expressing Freely with Respect and Realness” July 29, designed for ages 16-19.

Because of the the coronavirus pandemic, there have been many changes in the way we live every day. It is understandable that these changes can be frustrating for teens seeking autonomy from parents, and try to make real connections with peers and achieve excellence in school, sports, advocacies or other fields. Though there are things teens cannot control, they can control how they respond to these changes.

Inquirer Academy realizes that for teenagers to adapt well, they must learn these skills:

Confidence in speaking. If they succeeded in hiding during class recitations, this may be more difficult in online classes. They shouldn’t fret though. If they ever envied classmates who talked so eloquently, they can be like him/her, too. They can practice talking in front of the mirror, read aloud, and so on. There are so many tips, but the most important is to identify why they are scared of talking in front of people.

Being self-aware. It’s time to ask tough questions, like “Why do I seriously dislike this person when he/she is not doing anything to me?” or “Why do I feel like I am always competing with my brother?”

Ability to make authentic conversations. Adults say that this generation avoids heart-to-heart conversations. With technology, they can already talk to anyone they want. But the most essential is for one to be real when talking to one’s parents, siblings, cousins and friends. “Are you being true to your friends? Do you express yourself freely to your parents?”

Resilience. Filipinos are said to be resilient or able to adjust easily when faced with a setback or difficulty. The current pandemic is an example of a setback. Everyone faces even more as they grow old. How can kids be resilient at a young age?

Inquirer Academy: Tel. Jerald Miguel, 0945-2158935; email [email protected]; visit www.fb.com/InquirerAcademy.