High school can be exciting but challenging. Your support and guidance help your teen stay confident, make good choices, and find balance during these important years.
Set and Support Goals
Encourage your teen to set goals and write them down. Having clear goals gives them direction and motivation.
Emphasize the Importance of Grades
Remind them that grades matter from the start. If their grades aren’t where they want them to be, help them make a plan to improve.
Explore Future Options Together
It’s okay if your teen doesn’t yet know what they want to do after graduation. Support them in exploring their interests and options.
Plan for College or Technical Training
Talk with your teen and their school counselor about college or technical training opportunities. Help them choose the right classes and learn about ways to pay for higher education.
Encourage Balance
Encourage your teen to balance hard work and fun. Success in school is important, but so is enjoying their high school years.
Promote Positive Friendships
Help your teen find friends who motivate them to do their best and make healthy choices.
Get Involved in Activities
Support their involvement in sports, music, or clubs to help them build confidence, learn new skills, and make good friends.
Talk About Peer Pressure
Remind your teen they never have to do anything that makes them uncomfortable or unsafe.
Discuss Healthy Relationships
Make sure your teen knows it’s never okay for someone to hurt, threaten, or put them down—publicly or privately.
Watch for Emotional Warning Signs
If your teen seems depressed, angry, or withdrawn, or if you suspect an eating disorder, reach out for help. Find a trusted counselor, teacher, or mental health professional right away.
Encourage Healthy Habits
Help your teen eat well, get enough sleep, and stay active. These routines support their physical and emotional health through all the ups and downs of high school.