Over and over again, I see a pattern of teens not getting the attention that they need/want and therefore start looking elsewhere for satisfaction. If the yeshivas/schools would start incorporating more stimulating activities into the agenda so that not only the scholastic kids are getting what they need, I’m SURE we’d see a positive change. Why can’t the schools incorporate more chessed activities (boys can package Tomchei Shabbos or visit men in nursing homes….even some kiruv functions in their yeshivos)? A teen that helps someone will feel a sense of accomplishment, especially if he/she is not doing well academically. I’m not even suggesting a daily change, how about once a week, or maybe even on Rosh Chodesh-it will give these kids motivation and something to look foward to.
