Boarding schools for troubled teens can be an excellent option for families struggling to manage their child’s behavior at home. These schools provide a safe and supportive environment where teens can learn new coping skills and make positive life changes.
Troubled teens can benefit from the structure and support of a boarding school. These schools offer a variety of programs, including therapy, academics, and extracurricular activities, that can help teens overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
There are numerous boarding schools for troubled teens, so it is essential to research and find one that fits your child’s needs.
The Benefits
There are many benefits to sending a troubled teen to boarding school. Some of the most common advantages include:
- Structure And Support: Boarding schools provide a structured environment with clear expectations and boundaries. This can be helpful for teens who are struggling with behavioral issues.
- Therapy: Many boarding schools offer therapy services to help teens address the underlying causes of their problems. This can include individual, group, and family therapy.
- Academics: Boarding schools typically offer a high-quality academic program. This can help teens who are struggling academically get back on track.
- Extracurricular Activities: Boarding schools offer a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, and arts programs. These activities can help teens develop new skills, make friends, and build self-esteem.
- A Fresh Start: Boarding schools can provide a fresh start for teens struggling in their home environment. Away from the negative influences of their old life, teens can focus on their recovery and make positive changes.
- Reduced Stress: Boarding schools can reduce stress for both teens and parents. Teens are removed from the stressful environment of their home, and parents can have peace of mind knowing that their child is in a safe and supportive environment.
The Drawbacks
If you are considering sending your child to a boarding school for troubled teens, carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks. Consider the following disadvantages:
- Cost: Boarding schools can be expensive. It is important to factor in the cost of tuition, room and board, and other expenses before deciding. We will go into more detail later in the article.
- Isolation: Boarding schools can be isolating for teens not used to being away from home. Make sure that your teen is prepared for the change in environment.
- Homesickness: It is common for teens to experience homesickness when they first go to boarding school. It is important to be patient and supportive during this time.
- Lack Of Privacy: Boarding schools typically have a lot of rules and regulations, which can limit teens’ privacy. This can be difficult for some teens to adjust to.
- Feeling Of Being Trapped: Some teens may feel trapped in a boarding school, especially if they are not making progress or are unhappy with the program.
- Risk Of Abuse: There have been reports of abuse at some boarding schools. It is vital to research and choose a school with a good reputation.
Types Of Boarding Schools
Note that these are just some different boarding schools for troubled teens. Many other types of schools are available, and the best type of school for your teen will depend on their individual needs and goals.
- Therapeutic: These schools focus on providing therapy and counseling to help teens address the underlying causes of their problems. They typically offer various therapy services, such as individual, group, and family therapy.
- Behavioral: These schools focus on helping teens change their behavior and develop positive coping skills. They typically have a structured environment with clear expectations and boundaries.
- Academic: These schools focus on providing a high-quality academic program to help struggling teens. They typically have small class sizes and offer tutoring and other educational support services.
- Military: These schools focus on instilling discipline and structure in teens. They typically have a military-style environment with strict rules and regulations.
- Religious: These schools focus on providing religious education to teens. They typically have a strong religious curriculum and offer opportunities for religious activities, such as worship services and prayer groups.
Suppose you are considering sending your child to a boarding school for troubled teens. In that case, you should consider the school’s philosophy, approach to treatment, location, size, academic and extracurricular offerings, safety record, and financial aid policies.
Talking to your teen about their thoughts and feelings about boarding school is also fundamental. They should be involved in the decision-making process and feel comfortable with the choice.
If you are still unsure whether boarding school is the right option for your teen, consider talking to a therapist or counselor specializing in working with troubled teens. They can help you assess your teen’s needs and make the best decision for their future.
The Cost Of Boarding Schools For Troubled Teens
The cost of sending a troubled teen to boarding school can vary depending on the type of school, the location, and the level of care required. However, boarding schools for troubled teens can generally be quite expensive.
According to The Envoy Group, the average cost of therapeutic boarding schools is around $8,000 per month. However, some schools can cost as much as $15,000 or more monthly.
There are a few factors that can affect the cost of boarding school for troubled teens, including:
- Type Of School: Therapeutic boarding schools typically cost more than behavioral boarding schools.
- Location: Schools in urban areas tend to be more expensive than schools in rural areas.
- The Level Of Care: Schools offering more intensive care, such as those specializing in substance abuse or eating disorders, will be more expensive.
In addition to the monthly tuition, there are also other costs associated with sending a teen to boarding school, such as:
- Application Fees: Application fees can range from $50 to $500.
- Travel Costs: The cost of travel to and from the school will vary depending on the distance.
- Personal Expenses: Teens may need money for personal items, such as clothing, toiletries, and snacks.
Offsetting The Cost
There are a few ways to help offset the cost of boarding school for troubled teens, such as:
- Financial Aid: Some schools offer financial aid to families who qualify.
- Scholarships: There are several scholarships available for troubled teens.
- Payment Plans: Some schools offer payment plans that make the cost more affordable.
If you are considering sending your child to a boarding school for troubled teens, factor in the cost. Also, remember that the cost of boarding school may be worth it if it helps your child get the help they need.
Academic Requirements
The academic requirements for boarding schools for troubled teens vary depending on the school. However, most schools require students to have a minimum GPA of 2.0 or higher.
Some schools may also require students to have taken specific prerequisite courses, such as algebra or English.
In addition to academic requirements, some boarding schools for troubled teens also have behavioral requirements. These requirements may include being drug-free, attending all classes, and following the school’s rules and regulations.
Note that the academic and behavioral requirements for boarding schools for troubled teens are not as strict as those for traditional boarding schools. This is because boarding schools for troubled teens are designed to help students struggling academically or behaviorally. The schools understand that these students may need extra support and guidance.
Final Thoughts
Boarding schools for troubled teens can be a valuable resource for families who are struggling to help their child.
These schools offer a structured environment with clear expectations and boundaries and therapy and counseling services to help teens address the underlying causes of their problems.
Boarding schools for troubled teens are not a magic solution. They can be expensive and may not be the right fit for every teen. Research and choose a school that fits your child’s needs well.
