Column by Rob Reuvers: Teenagers
Young people have a lot to offer, but they struggle with performance pressure and uncertainty. They deserve trust, boundaries, and a safe environment. In West Maas en Waal, young people are actively involved, for example in the JOP and meetings such as Puberpraat. Together, we ensure that they already count.
At home, I am the father of Rosanne (14) and Milan (11). At work, I am an alderman for social affairs. In both roles, I learn from young people every day. Sometimes in a confrontational way. Because, to be honest, my children hold up a mirror to me more often than I would like. It's quite uncomfortable, but also valuable. It helps us to understand each other better.
What strikes me—both at home and in conversations with young people in the community—is how much potential they have. They think critically, have a keen sense of what is going on in the world, and are not afraid to ask questions. I admire that.
Still, I am concerned. Being a teenager has never been easy, but today it demands even more. Pressure to perform, social media, uncertainty about the future: young people have to find their way in a world full of expectations. That creates friction. Between rules and freedom. Between letting go and holding on.
What do they need? Trust. Understanding. Boundaries. And above all, a safe environment where they are allowed to make mistakes. As parents, teachers, neighbors, and as a community, we can make a difference. Not just by talking about young people, but above all by listening to them.
We are doing this more and more often in West Maas en Waal. For example, this summer we worked with young people to set up a Youth Meeting Place (JOP). A place where they can meet, play sports, laugh, and just be themselves. A great example of what can happen when you really involve young people.
And there's more. On Thursday, September 18, there will be a theater performance about teenagers and temptations at the MFA De Rosmolen. On Thursday, October 1, the annual Puberpraat (Teen Talk) will take place in Druten. Two free evenings full of recognition, tips, and encounters.
Let's keep talking to our teenagers. Especially when it's difficult. Because they are not only the future—they are also the present.
Because that's how we keep an eye on each other.
Rob Reuvers
Alderman for Social Affairs