For many teens little emphasis and effort is put into studying and the result is that many are flunking or barely passing in school. Yet we all know that if a student is successful in high school they are more likely to be successful for the rest of their life. The habits and skills acquired as a teenager will aide them in college and as an adult. So it is important that as parents we help our teens achieve academic success. Read on for some ways you can influence your teen and encourage academic success.
Show interest. Talk to your child about what they did in school that day. Ask questions like what was discussed in school? If there was a particular thing that they learned? What book are they reading in English? Do they like it? Was the math topic for the day difficult or easy?
Talk about your expectations. Before the school year beings talk to your teenager about what you expect. Recently I was talking to a friend who explained that their 14 year-old son will not be able to get his learner’s permit and drive unless he receives certain grades or if his parents feel like he worked hard enough. They feel that in the past their son has not worked to his potential and has to work harder to earn the privilege of driving.
Praise efforts. Success is measured by how hard a student works and not necessarily by their grades. A child who works hard and achieves C’s is just as successful as the student who works and makes A’s. If your child has worked hard and still only brings home a C praise them for their efforts. Some subjects and teachers are just harder then others. Don’t penalize your child for not bringing home a lower grade if they actually studied and worked hard in the class. Also if your child does bring home A’s praise them for their effort and recognize that they worked hard.
Attendance. Let your teenager realize that you expect them to be in school everyday and that sluffing will not be tolerated. If they are missing school they are missing important information. They also need to be present to turn in assignments and take tests.
Monitor homework. Be aware of how much time your teenager is spending on homework. Most teenagers will have at least an hours worth of homework or studying each night. Set up a place where your teenager can study without disturbances or distractions like television. If your teen is using the computer for homework check and make sure the computer is being used for that purpose.
Stress proper health habits. Sleep is important and teenagers should have about eight hours a night to be properly rested. Eating breakfast is also beneficial. If your teen has a hard time making time for breakfast have quick foods on hand like yogurt smoothies or breakfast bars.
Teach time management. Teach your teen how to manage their time. Schoolwork is often neglected in favor of sports or time with friends. Teenagers also need to learn to start on large projects early. When a large project is assigned help your teen make a schedule that shows when to complete each task and then help them stick to it.
Keep in touch with teachers. If you have a question about how your teenager is doing call the teacher. Teachers are more than happy to correspond with teachers through phone calls or email. If your child does need extra help, get them a tutor or arrange for extra help with the teacher.
Doing these things will not guarantee that your child will be academically successful, since it really is up to them. But if you do your part as a parent your teen will most likely rise to the occasion and do their part of well.