Before the Storm

Something has changed with your teen. You can feel it, but you can't quite put your finger on it.

They spend more time alone. Conversations get shorter. Sleep, school, friendships, or interests begin to shift. You wonder whether it's part of growing up or something that needs your attention. And if you bring it up, how do you keep the conversation from turning into a fight?

Before the Storm begins in that space.

Drawing on more than thirty years of working with teens and families, Dan Renaud helps parents, educators, and caregivers recognize what he calls "the slow drift": changes in behavior and connection that can build before a concern becomes a crisis.

One rough day doesn't tell the whole story. Neither does one bad grade or a closed bedroom door. The work is learning to notice patterns, stay curious, and make room for a teen to tell you what's going on.

Through stories, reflection questions, and practical exercises, this book explores how to:

• Recognize changes in mood, sleep, school, friendships, and behavior that deserve a closer look.
• Bring up concerns in ways that invite conversation.
• Stay involved as teens seek more privacy and independence.
• Build connection through everyday routines, shared values, and time together.
• Talk about screens, social media, and online pressures.
• Work together across home, school, and the community.
• Recognize when a young person needs professional help.

At the heart of the book is the R.E.A.C.H. Framework™, a way to help the adults in a teen's life pay attention, engage, and respond with care.

You know the young person in front of you. This book gives you language and tools to help you understand what you're noticing and decide what to do next.

No parent, teacher, or caregiver can prevent every crisis. Some struggles come with few visible signs. But we can create more chances for a teen to feel heard, ask for help, and stay connected to people who care.

Whether you're raising a teenager, teaching a classroom, or supporting a family, you don't have to wait until the problem has a name before you begin a conversation.

You don't need all the answers. You need a place to start.

Before the Storm is Book Two of the R.E.A.C.H. Family Series.