What Every Parent Needs to Know About their High Schooler
If you’re the parent of a high school student, then you know that this period in your child’s life is both exciting and challenging. There are so many new things for them to experience, but with all of these new opportunities also come new responsibilities.
As your child progresses through high school, you should keep a few things in mind to help them stay on track and make the most of their education.
In this post, we’ll provide you with a rundown of what every parent needs to know about their high school student.
By understanding these things, you can help your child have a successful academic career!
What Do Parents Need to Know About their High School Students?
Parents of high schoolers should remember a few key things to help their kids stay on track:
1. Understand your high schooler’s coursework requirements
In order to graduate, your child will need to complete a certain number of required courses in core academic subjects. These include English, math, science, social studies, and foreign language. Depending on your child’s college and career aspirations, they may also need to take additional courses in topics like the arts or business.
Be sure to talk to their guidance counselor about what courses your child will need to take in order to stay on track for graduation.
2. Get involved in your teen’s education
There are many ways to support your high schooler’s education at home and school. You can help them with their assignment, attend parent-teacher conferences, and become involved in school activities. When you take an interest in your child’s education, you’ll be better equipped to help them succeed.
3. Talk to your child about their future
As your child enters high school, they’ll need to start thinking about their future plans. This includes deciding what they want to do after graduation, whether they want to go to college, and what type of career they’d like to pursue.
Be sure to have these conversations with your child so that you can help them make informed decisions about their future.
4. Encourage them to challenge themselves
Another important thing you can do as a parent is to encourage your child to challenge themselves. Don’t let them get by with just the bare minimum; push them to take advanced classes, join extracurricular activities, and generally go above and beyond.
It’s important for your child to understand that they have the potential to achieve great things if they’re willing to put in the effort.
5. Help them set realistic goals
As your child starts thinking about college and their future career, it’s important to help them set realistic goals. This means taking into account their strengths and weaknesses, as well as their interests. With your help, they can develop a plan that will set them up for success in the long run.
6. Monitor their progress
As your child goes through high school, it’s important to monitor their progress. This means staying on top of their grades and test scores, as well as their general attitude towards school.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to their teachers or guidance counselors if you see any red flags. It’s better to address problems early on so that they can be fixed before it’s too late.
7. Prepare them for college
One of the most important things you can do as a parent is to prepare your child for college. This means helping them with the college application process and teaching them about the importance of financial aid. You should also start talking to them about the realities of college life so that they’re not blindsided when they get there.
8. Understand the college application process
If your child is planning on going to college, then you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the college application process. This includes understanding deadlines, filling out applications, and writing essays. Be sure to help your child through this process so that they can get into the college of their dreams.
9. Help your child prepare for standardized tests
If your child is planning on going to college, they will likely need to take standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Be sure to help them prepare for these tests so that they can do their best. There are many resources available, including test prep courses and practice tests.
11. Communicate with their teachers
Another important thing for parents to do is communicate with their child’s teachers. This way, you can stay up-to-date on their progress and be aware of any problems that may arise. It’s also a good opportunity to get to know the people who are teaching your child on a personal level.
12. Encourage them to be involved in their community
Finally, it’s important to encourage your child to be involved in their community. This could mean volunteering for a local organization, participating in school activities, or even being a good citizen. Your child needs to understand the importance of giving back, and this is a great way to instill those values in them.
13. Stay up-to-date on your child’s progress
It’s important to stay informed about your child’s academic progress. Be sure to check in with their teachers and counselors regularly. You can also get involved in online tools like Schoology.
14. Encourage your child to get involved in extracurricular activities
In addition to their academics, your child should also focus on getting involved in extracurricular activities. These activities can include sports, clubs, and other after-school programs. They provide a great way for your child to make friends, explore new interests, and develop leadership skills.
15. Help your child manage their time wisely
One of the biggest challenges of high school is learning how to manage time wisely. There will be many demands on your child’s time, including homework, extracurricular activities, and socializing. Help your child learn how to balance these competing demands so that they can stay on track academically.
16. Support your child through the ups and downs
High school can be a rollercoaster ride. There will be highs and lows, good days and bad days. Be there for your child during both the good times and the tough times. Offer them support, love, and encouragement.
17. Establish rules and expectations for grades, homework, and behavior
It’s important to set rules and expectations for your child from the very beginning. This will help them know what is expected of them and keep them on track. Be clear about your expectations for grades, homework, and behavior.
18. Help your child develop good study habits
One of the best things you can do for your child is to help them develop good study habits. This includes setting aside time each day for homework, creating a quiet space to work, and breaking down tasks into smaller goals.
19. Start a dialogue with your child about their high school experience
It’s important to talk to your child about their high school experience. This includes both the good and the bad. Be sure to ask them about their classes, friends, and extracurricular activities. Listen to what they have to say and offer your support.
20. Encourage your child to take advantage of resources
There are many resources available to help your child succeed in high school. Be sure to encourage them to take advantage of these resources. This could include things like tutoring, counseling, and academic support programs.
If you take the time to understand these things about your high school student, you’ll be in a better position to help them succeed academically.
From knowing their coursework to encouraging them to get involved in activities, you can make a big difference in your child’s high school experience. So, take the time to learn about what’s going on in their life and how you can help them through it.
Tips For Talking to Your High Schooler About Drugs, Alcohol, and Sex
Some tips for talking to your high schooler about drugs, alcohol, and sex include:
- Being honest about the risks and dangers of these things
- Letting them know that you are there for them if they ever need to talk
- Encouraging them to make responsible choices
- Providing resources and information about these topics
- Listening to their concerns and questions
- Respectfully disagree if they make choices that you don’t agree with
- Allowing them to make their own decisions while still providing guidance and support.
Final Thoughts!
If you are a parent of a high schooler, it is important to be aware of the changes that your child is experiencing. The teenage years can be difficult for both parents and children. It is crucial to have open communication with your child and support them during this time.
High School of America provides a supportive environment where students can thrive. We offer small class sizes, personal attention from teachers, and a variety of extracurricular activities.
Contact us today to learn more about our online high school diploma program and how we can help your child succeed in high school and beyond.
