Inside: Top tips for surviving the locker room teens will surely benefit from.
Okay, I think we can be real here…this is a safe space. The first few weeks of using the locker room in High School is HORRIBLE. You feel uncomfortable, don’t fully know what kind of boundaries there are, and overall…you just want some privacy.
Honestly, since starting High School, I have always found the idea of the locker rooms a little odd. But alas, we can’t change it now. So I might as well help you make the most of it. After all, entering high school often marks a significant transition in a teenager’s life, and I certainly want to make sure you have the best experience you can.
At its core, the locker room serves as a place for students to change into their gym clothes, prepare for physical education classes, and freshen up before and after activities. To help you feel comfortable and confident in this environment, I have compiled a list of tips for navigating the high school locker room.
Tips for the Locker Room Teens Will Benefit From
Most people out there will have a common sense understanding of some of the things in this list, but regardless…I wanted to create a clean and clear list for you to pull from. Deep breath, people; it’s just a changing room! For more life skills high school students need, check these out.
Respect personal boundaries
Respecting personal boundaries is essential in any communal space, including the locker room. Be mindful of others’ privacy and personal space, and avoid staring or making inappropriate comments. Remember that everyone is entitled to feel comfortable and secure in their own bodies.
I think that it is helpful to think about treating others the way that you want to be treated. Even once you get comfortable in the locker room, make sure that you are still giving others the space that they deserve.
I have found that sometimes younger people have a hard time setting boundaries because they are scared to make things awkward. With this in mind, I urge you to try and maybe give people their space in the locker room, and only get more comfortable when other people invite you to be.
For example, some people don’t like to carry on conversations as they get changed. So if you were talking, hold off on finishing the convo until everyone is dressed.
Locker Room Teens – Practice good hygiene
Having proper hygiene is crucial in the locker room setting. The space is small, and chances are that you are using this room when you already don’t smell your greatest!
So just shower regularly, use deodorant, and bring necessary toiletries like towels and soap. Keep your personal items organized and avoid leaving any mess behind. By practicing good hygiene, you contribute to a clean and pleasant environment for everyone.
Choose appropriate attire
When selecting your gym clothes, opt for appropriate attire that adheres to the school’s dress code. At first, I thought this was annoying, but then I tried to run in my cute pair of leggings and it was a MESS! They bugged me for my entire practice.
Take it from me, make sure your clothing is comfortable, suitable for physical activities, and respectful of others. Avoid wearing offensive or revealing clothing that may make fellow students uncomfortable.
Secure your belongings
Lockers are provided to safeguard personal belongings during physical education classes. I think it’s a good idea to invest in a sturdy lock and keep your locker locked at all times to prevent theft or unauthorized access. As good as your friends might be, you never know what the person around the corner is going through.
So never share your locker combination or password with others to maintain your privacy and security. This one just helps you to feel more safe and secure in what little space you are granted at school.
Locker Room Teens – Time management
Efficiently managing your time in the locker room is crucial to avoid rushing or feeling overwhelmed. I cannot stand feeling rushed, afterwards I feel like I carry that sense of urgency and stress with me throughout the entire day. No thank you! So arrive at the locker room with sufficient time to change and gather your belongings.
If you need extra time to get ready, plan accordingly and arrive a few minutes earlier.
Foster a positive atmosphere
Something I wish I would have done sooner in the locker room is work towards creating a happy atmosphere. I was pretty nervous when I first went in though, so I won’t give myself too hard of a time.
It’s important to promote a supportive and inclusive atmosphere within the locker room. Treat your peers with kindness, empathy, and respect. Avoid engaging in gossip, bullying, or body shaming. Be mindful of your words and actions, as they can significantly impact others’ self-esteem and overall well-being.
If you overhear someone being rude or talking bad about someone loudly, step in in a respectful way. I know that it can be hard, but it seriously helps in the long run.
Seek assistance when needed
If you feel uncomfortable or encounter any issues within the locker room, don’t hesitate to seek help from a teacher, coach, or school counselor. I am serious about this one. Again, I know it can be super uncomfortable to ask for help. But at the end of the day, they are there to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
Reporting any incidents of bullying or inappropriate behavior can contribute to fostering a healthier locker room culture. So this tip and the one above pair together nicely.
Embrace diversity
As I am sure you are already aware, High school locker rooms bring together students from various backgrounds, body types, and abilities. So this is your chance to embrace the diversity of your peers and celebrate differences! My mom tells me stories of what High School used to be like when she was younger, and honestly, it’s terrifying.
We have come so far since then, but there is still further to go on the front of bullying. Even if bullying isn’t the issue, if you see one of your friends unhappy with their body and compare, encourage them that they are perfect just the way they are. Being 16 can be hard(check out these 16th birthday party ideas that will make this year more fun for you).
Respect and inclusivity are essential components of a positive locker room environment. Everyone feels bad about themselves from time to time, but I have found that the best way to get through it is with the help of your friends.
So…now you know that navigating the high school locker room can be an exciting and rewarding experience when approached with respect, hygiene, and consideration for others.
By following these tips, I know you can create a positive atmosphere, feel confident, and contribute to an inclusive environment where all students can thrive. Remember, the locker room is not just a place to change clothes but also an opportunity to develop valuable communication skills and build lasting friendships.
I know that it can be scary firsthand, so my hope is that you are feeling less stressed out leaving this article than you initially did when starting it. If you are on the lookout for more High School tips, then you need to check out these time management activities!
Mom to teens with lots of ideas and inspiration to share for travel, food, parties, school & fun!