Facing Academic and Emotional Challenges
As students make the transition into middle and high school, many adolescents encounter a larger-than-life, more impersonal, more competitive, and grade-oriented environment than they experienced in the primary grades. The National Association of Secondary School Principals states, “In this environment many students’ grades decline, and they do not attend school as regularly as they should. They also develop a more negative view of themselves and feel an increased need for friendships.”
Studies have shown students’ perceptions concerning high school reveal both excitement and fear. According to the National Middle School Association, “They look forward to more freedom and more personal choice. However, they also admit to being ‘nervous’ and ‘scared’ about older students teasing them; getting lost in a larger and unfamiliar school; and, most troubling to teens, is making bad grades.”
What Parents Can Do
Teach your children how to develop the skills, habits, and attitudes that lead to lifelong success. That means recognizing the importance of higher education, actively supporting the goals of the school, and encouraging/requiring school attendance.
You can help your child in many ways:
• Set a good example and turn off the television, iPod or cell phone – and read or write.
• Understand your child’s personal learning style and work with him or her in ways that complement the individual learning process. To determine your child’s learning style, visit the “Parent Resources” area of www.SylvanLearning.com and take the Learning Styles Quiz.
• Keep open communication with your child’s teachers to ensure you are aware if struggles arise.
• Be aware of academic requirements needed for future classes. Does one version of middle or high school algebra lead to college preparatory math, whereas another version fulfills the math requirement but does not prepare the student for more advanced courses in math and science? Help your child keep his or her college and career options open by helping to select the “right” courses.
• Foster your teen’s strengths, talents and interests. Give praise for increased effort and celebrate successes.
Posts
