Talking to Health

Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen by Michelle Icard
Harmony Books, February 23, 2021

As we reach the year mark of the pandemic, with schools still navigating hybrid and distance learning, many parents and educators are finding  themselves rethinking the ways in which they partner to support the growth and development of students. Parents are spending more time with their children, and conversations that may have once lived in advisory programs or health classes are being had at home. Author Michelle Icard seems to have anticipated this new reality with her latest book, Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen. The premise of the text is simple – families that engage in fourteen conversations, with topics ranging from sexual health and friendship to "fairness" and impulsivity, will better prepare their young teenagers for a healthier transition into adulthood. Icard's chapters follow a clear structure and provide research, practical tips, and even sample scripts for engaging in meaningful discussion. Although Icard addresses parents as her audience, educators, middle school teachers, and administrators, in particular, will appreciate Icard's work. Especially useful is her B.R.I.E.F. Model for engaging in conversation: "Begin peacefully, Relate to your child, Interview to collect information, Echo what you're hearing, and give Feedback." In all, Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen is an easily digestible and welcome read for anyone who partners with and/or supports middle school students and their families.