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Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
At Peers Not Fears, we believe leadership is for everyone. It’s not about titles—it’s about action, influence, and showing up fully in your own life.
Dive into our posts and discover how to empower your teen to grow into the leader they’re meant to be.
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Rethinking Teen Curfews: Why Flexibility Builds Responsibility
Teen curfews aren't about control; they're about building communication, trust, and responsibility. In this post, I share how flexible curfews, curiosity-based conversations, and natural consequences can help teens learn to make thoughtful decisions while they're still under our roof. By shifting from fixed rules to shared agreements, we empower teens to grow into confident, independent leaders, one late-night conversation at a time.
Lorraine Connell
Jul 93 min read


The Secrets of Mistakes: Why Hiding Them Hurts More Than Making Them
Hiding mistakes isolates us and blocks growth. Real learning happens when we share, reflect, and grow from our missteps.
Lorraine Connell
Jul 22 min read


Leadership is a long game, and our children are worth every minute of it.
We’ve stopped investing in people and started investing in profits. Leadership is long-term, and our children are worth the time.
Lorraine Connell
Jun 252 min read


Learning Is a Risk – Are We Making It Safe to Build Student Confidence?
Learning is risky—and our classrooms must be safe enough for students to take those risks. Are you making space for that risk?
Lorraine Connell
May 283 min read


Words That Stick: How We Communicate Matters More Than We Think
The words we say stick—sometimes forever. What we think is small can shape how a child sees themselves for life.
Lorraine Connell
May 213 min read


Leadership and Integrity Skills, and Giving Credit Where It's Due
Giving credit costs nothing—but not doing it can cost someone everything. Let’s teach students the power of honoring original work.
Lorraine Connell
May 73 min read


How to Truly Listen to Your Teen: Building Trust Through Open Conversations
Want a stronger connection with your teen? Learn how open conversations, trust, and listening can transform your relationship.
Lorraine Connell
Apr 293 min read


When “Bad Behavior” Is a Leadership Test—for Teens and Adults
To help teens lead, we must let them push back—without pushing them away. Growth starts when we respond with trust, not control.
Lorraine Connell
Apr 223 min read


The Leadership Crisis: Why Leadership Accountability and Taking Responsibility Matters at Every Level
Great leaders take responsibility. When leaders shift blame, they erode trust. Leadership starts with accountability—in school & beyond.
Lorraine Connell
Apr 153 min read


How to Create a Youth Leadership Program
Empower teens with leadership skills that last a lifetime. Learn how to create a sustainable, impactful youth leadership program today!
Lorraine Connell
Apr 26 min read


Teen Leadership Programs: What Are Some Leadership Activities for Students?
Encourage teen leadership by challenging students to problem-solve, step outside their comfort zones, and support each other’s growth!
Lorraine Connell
Feb 112 min read


Is Making Friends a Skill? Exploring the Role of Leadership Coaching in Social Connections
Friendship is a skill, not an innate ability. Leadership coaching helps teens develop confidence, empathy, and communication to make friends
Lorraine Connell
Jan 293 min read


What Is Public Speaking and Why Does It Matter for Teens?
Public speaking builds confidence, leadership skills, and personal growth. Learn how teens can thrive with leadership coaching.
Lorraine Connell
Jan 223 min read


What are Teen Leadership Programs?
Empower teens with leadership development programs! Build confidence, enhance skills, and prepare for future challenges today.
Lorraine Connell
Jan 153 min read


How Leadership Coaching Helps Prepare for College Applications
Prepare your teen for college success! Leadership coaching builds confidence, soft skills, and clarity for standout applications. 🌟
Lorraine Connell
Jan 83 min read


Belonging and Authenticity As a Teenager: Belonging vs. Fitting In
Belonging means being your true self, not just fitting in. Help your teen explore their identity with insights from leadership coaches.
Lorraine Connell
Dec 23, 20243 min read


Fostering Leadership in the Classroom: Reflection Prompts and Exercises for Growth
Foster leadership in the classroom by reflecting on growth zones, relationships, and empowering student voices to inspire confident leaders
Lorraine Connell
Dec 3, 20244 min read


Stories of Teen Leadership Transformation—Seeing Leadership in Every Teen
Unlock your teen’s leadership potential! Peers Not Fears helps build confidence, resilience, and essential leadership skills for success.
Lorraine Connell
Nov 20, 20245 min read


Creating a Classroom of Student Vulnerability and Growth
Creating a classroom of vulnerability & empathy empowers students to take risks, embrace growth, & feel safe sharing their authentic selves.
Lorraine Connell
Nov 12, 20244 min read


Embracing Biases: The Hidden Roadblocks to Seeing True Leadership in Youth
Confronting biases transforms classrooms and leaders. Challenge assumptions, embrace diverse strengths, and see every student's potential.
Lorraine Connell
Nov 1, 20244 min read
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