Thursday, July 27, 2006
A Life Changing Experience
Dear Guidance Guy,
I have a giant problem! First, I must say that school is very important to me and I hate it when I miss even one day. This brings me to my problem. I just found out I am pregnant. I've taken two pregnancy tests, both positive. I'm scared to tell my parents.
I don't know how I'm going to stay in school and take care of a baby at the same time! I'll be going into grade eight when school returns, and I was wondering if I could somehow learn at home. You know, have the lessons brought to me. Has this ever been done before? Please help!
Messed Up
*** *** ***
Dear Messed Up,
The first thing that needs to happen is for you to tell your parents. You need to confirm with a doctor that you're pregnant and you will need proper prenatal (before baby) medical care. This isn't just for you - this is for your baby. Given your age, this is very important.
I'm sure you are scared, and of course you know within a few weeks it will be obvious something is changing in your body. You will feel so much better when the truth is out, and any decisions that need to be made can be worked through by both you, your parents and (if you choose) the father of the baby. This includes information about schooling. Many school districts have special programs for students who are expecting babies. Being tutored at home is one possibility. Going to a school for pregnant students may be another choice. And being home schooled by your parents is another choice.
If you are too scared to tell your parents by yourself, see if there is another relative or family friend you trust who can go with you. And if a counselor or someone else from school is available, that's another choice. But please do this soon.
You have a lot to think about, including the circumstances that got you pregnant at such a young age. Having a child before going into high school will be a life-changing experience. You have to plan for two people now, not just yourself. Please let the people who love you work with you on the most important issue of your life.
Best of Luck,
The Guidance Guy
I have a giant problem! First, I must say that school is very important to me and I hate it when I miss even one day. This brings me to my problem. I just found out I am pregnant. I've taken two pregnancy tests, both positive. I'm scared to tell my parents.
I don't know how I'm going to stay in school and take care of a baby at the same time! I'll be going into grade eight when school returns, and I was wondering if I could somehow learn at home. You know, have the lessons brought to me. Has this ever been done before? Please help!
Messed Up
*** *** ***
Dear Messed Up,
The first thing that needs to happen is for you to tell your parents. You need to confirm with a doctor that you're pregnant and you will need proper prenatal (before baby) medical care. This isn't just for you - this is for your baby. Given your age, this is very important.
I'm sure you are scared, and of course you know within a few weeks it will be obvious something is changing in your body. You will feel so much better when the truth is out, and any decisions that need to be made can be worked through by both you, your parents and (if you choose) the father of the baby. This includes information about schooling. Many school districts have special programs for students who are expecting babies. Being tutored at home is one possibility. Going to a school for pregnant students may be another choice. And being home schooled by your parents is another choice.
If you are too scared to tell your parents by yourself, see if there is another relative or family friend you trust who can go with you. And if a counselor or someone else from school is available, that's another choice. But please do this soon.
You have a lot to think about, including the circumstances that got you pregnant at such a young age. Having a child before going into high school will be a life-changing experience. You have to plan for two people now, not just yourself. Please let the people who love you work with you on the most important issue of your life.
Best of Luck,
The Guidance Guy
