A Thinking Teen & Obama’s Inaugural Speech

It’s imperative that we have youngsters who can think, solve problems and see beneath the surface.  So many act impulsively and haven’t learned to consider before they act.  They also often don’t analyze what they see and hear. 

I was impressed when I talked with a teen yesterday and listened to her reaction to President Obama’s Inaugural speech.  (Many schools provided TV coverage of the Inauguration for students, teachers, and support staff to watch.  If it were lunch time, students took their trays back to the classroom or central area with TV.)  This teen’s reaction showed she is learning to think for herself and isn’t totally swayed by the emotion of the moment.  She’s beginning to see beyond the ”smoke and mirrors” of a situation.

I’ve also seen her act responsibly concerning her personal life, making decisions after considering pros and cons and consequences. 

Are there ways to encourage youngsters to be “thinking” people who look beneath the surface?  Have you encountered books that help?  How do you encourage the youngsters in your life?