Make breakfast handy to
improve learning
Research has shown that one reason some students behave poorly
in school is hunger. That's why eating a healthy breakfast is so
important to your teen's learning. If disorganization is slowing
your student down in the morning, figure out some nutritious
"take-along" foods, such as a hard-boiled egg or a banana, that
provide an energy boost and can be grabbed on the way out the
door. |
Reinforce school rules at
home
Teachers can't teach if they are
busy disciplining students. To support your teen's teachers, talk
with your teen about school rules, and reinforce them at home.
Teach him to show respect for others' property. Expect him to use
acceptable language and listen when others are talking. Make it
clear that he should follow directions and avoid distracting the
teacher or the other students.
Teach your teen to celebrate
safely
The end of the school year brings
many causes for celebration. But when teens celebrate, there is
always the chance some will try to "add" to the fun with alcohol or
drugs. Be sure to ask where your teen is going, what she will be
doing, with whom, and when you can expect her home. Tell her she
can call you at any time for a ride rather than get into a car with
someone who has been drinking or using drugs. If she does call,
don't lecture. Instead, thank her for being responsible.
Balance screen time with
healthy alternatives
Televisions and electronic devices
can entertain and inform teens. But too much recreational screen
time takes away from important activities like schoolwork, exercise
and interacting with family and friends. It also makes students
more likely to see inappropriate material, earn lower grades, read
fewer books, gain weight and develop anxieties. Brainstorm with
your teen about entertaining alternatives to screen time.
The 'Three-Minute Rule'
gives teens time to think
Teens are naturally impulsive. They
often act first and think later. To guide your teen toward using
good judgment, teach him the "Three-Minute Rule." Encourage him to
spend three minutes thinking before making a decision. During that
time, he should ask himself some questions: "Is this the right
thing to do?" "What will happen if I do it?" "Do I have any other
choices?"
Graphic novels are appealing
reading
If your teen is a reluctant reader,
try introducing her to graphic novels. These book-length stories
use pictures and words like comic books, but they offer more than
just entertainment. They cover many types of literature, including
mystery, fantasy, science, historical fiction, biography and
self-help. Check to make sure the content is appropriate before
your teen reads one. Ask your librarian to suggest titles.
Make the rules clear before
leaving your teen home alone
Your teen is old enough to babysit,
and maybe even drive. But he still needs guidelines if he'll be
home alone this summer. Make sure your teen understands who is
allowed in the house, what he should do before going out, who will
be his emergency contact, what he should tell callers who ask for
you, and what responsibilities he has around the house while you
are gone.