Struggling Teens

Some pregnant teens may prefer to stay in public school, while others, especially troubled teens, may prefer a program for pregnant teens. This article discusses benefits of residential facilities for pregnant teens such as vocational training, day care, counseling, parenting, and more.

One of the problems we still face in this country is the fact that there are a number of pregnant teens. These pregnant teens need special services, for them and for their babies. While some teenagers have the support of their families and friends, and can find some help during pregnancy and after giving birth, others are cast out. Additionally, there is the problem of teen pregnancy occurring in runaway teenagers and homeless teens. For the good of the teenager in question, and her baby, it can be a good idea to look for special programs for pregnant teens. Residential facilities can be a good solution to this issue.

Residential facilities for pregnant teens

Many of us, when we think of residential treatment facilities, think of drug treatment, or behavioral problems. However, not all residential facilities are based around these problems. Indeed, there is an increasing interest in programs for pregnant teens. These facilities provide services and living quarters for pregnant teenagers who need help and guidance - and someplace to live.

These facilities are designed with the unique needs of teenage mothers and their babies in mind. Traditional homeless shelters and residences are not usually equipped with the facilities and services that young mothers and their infants need. Additionally, these teen mothers need a place where they can develop skills and learn how to provide for themselves and their children.

Some of the services offered by these residential facilities for pregnant teens and teen mothers include:

• Education: Many teenage mothers do not finish high school. These facilities can help then complete their high school educations.
• Vocational training: Many residential facilities include some sort of program to help teen mothers get some vocational training.
• Day care: It is possible to leave children at a safe daycare in order to continue the education and training needed.
• Counseling: Many pregnant teens need counseling. This counseling can help them through the pregnancy and birth, and give them a place to turn when they encounter the stresses related to caring for an infant.
• Parenting classes: Many residential facilities for pregnant teens also offer parenting classes. Pregnant teens can learn what to expect, and learn how to be better parents.
• Skills development: Many of these pregnant teen programs also offer training in basic skills. Household skills such as cooking, nutrition and cleaning, as well as budgeting and frugal living, can be very useful. They can also lead to a better chance that teen mothers will be able to work toward independent living.

Some facilities are also able to provide basic medical clinic services, helping pregnant teens get the care they need. Helpful guidance on proper exercise and nutrition during pregnancy, as well as other health maintenance, can keep pregnant teenagers healthy. Additionally, some residential treatment facilities for teenagers include drug treatment programs aimed at helping pregnant teens with substance abuse problems overcome addictions that can harm them and their unborn children.

If a pregnant teenager comes from a dysfunctional or abusive background, or if she is homeless or a runaway, these facilities can be havens. They can help the teenager get back on her feet, developing useful skills. She can also get help for caring for her baby, and learn how to be a better parent. These facilities provide valuable services that can help teen mothers learn how to survive on their own, and equip them for a mostly independent lifestyle.