Kids tend to lose focus in the weeks before school lets out for the summer. How can you help keep them on track?
When the weather starts to turn warm, many students take that as a signal that the school year is essentially “over” and their vacation has started. Kids may slack off on studying, blow off assignments, and start taking “mental health” days. Unfortunately, the belief that this behavior won’t impact their academic standing is often a false one. How can you help keep kids on the straight and narrow through June?
Set a good example. Model taking responsibility for tasks and finishing what you start. Don’t let kids see you putting things off or neglecting jobs to pursue something more enjoyable. That will just give them an excuse to do the same.
Look at the consequences. If they fail a class, what happens? Do they attend summer school? Repeat a grade? How will these things impact their future? Maybe there is an activity they want to take part in this summer, or something else that can help motivate them to finish the year off right.
Help them set goals. Look at the long term. What do they need to do now to make sure they get the grade they want? How do these grades affect their eligibility for future classes, or college planning options?
Help break down tasks. Preparing for a final when spring fever has already set in can seem like a daunting task. Help teens manage big jobs by assisting them in chunking the task into manageable pieces. This is an important skill they will need for the future.
Teach time management. With all of the activities, kids are involved in these days, it can be difficult for some students to structure their time in a way that allows them to get everything done. Show them how to map out their time for the week on a time management chart, filling in school, sleep, meals, and regularly occurring activities. Set aside remaining blocks of time for school assignments and studying.
Follow up. Ask kids how their classes are going. Get specific: do they hand in homework? Are they studying for tests? Do they know what their average is? Do they even know how to calculate their average?
Show a little faith. Let kids know you believe in them, that you recognize all the hard work they’ve put in, and that you understand their impatience for the school year to end. Encourage them to keep going strong just a little longer.
Offer to help. Sometimes kids just need a push. Offer to help them study for a tough test, or get them started on a multi-step project. They’ll appreciate the attention, and you’ll have the opportunity to model some great study and planning skills for them.
With some extra attention and a nudge or two, your kids can finish off the school year on a positive note, ready for a fun and relaxing summer.
