High school can be full of ups and downs for students. This is an exciting time of great self discovery as well as the awkwardness of fitting in. There will be new experiences such as dating, driving, and preparing for college. This is a time when many life long bonds are formed and nostalgic memories generated. While your student might seem self reliant, there are things parents can do to support this transition.

Discuss your young person’s future plans. Get them thinking about college and making career choices.
Let them know that grades now carry additional weight as they will appear on their transcripts and follow them to college. Meet their teachers and attend open houses. Develop the lines of communication with the educators should you have questions or should challenges arise later. Most educators say student academic achievement is often higher when parents are involved and aware of their student’s performance.

Visit the school prior to enrolling and discuss course selections with your student. Meet with the guidance counselor or at least make sure your student does. Many high schools allow students to make course selections based on individual needs and goals. In addition there might be honors and advanced placement courses. This is a time of discovery for many students and they might change their direction after completing a course. This is acceptable and they should be encouraged to try new subjects. While students need to maintain acceptable grades they must also pursue what interests them.

At this stage of life peers can often have a great influence over your student. The friends they choose can sway their direction. Many times this can be a positive experience. Encouraging your kid to get involved in activities, can have some weight as to the friends they make. Communicating with your student during high school is critical. Your role as a parent is slowly changing from teaching consequences and disciplining to guiding.  By staying involved you can help your child stay on the right path.

by David McLeod

Owner School-Supply-List.com and Elementary School Teacher

David has been teaching elementary school in Central Texas for over 7 years and has over 15 years of experience in online education related websites and blogs.