How can I encourage my teenager to talk to me about school?
School can be a difficult subject to discuss with your teenager, for many different reasons. However, it's important to be able to talk about school challenges and opportunities, especially now that they are in high school: here are a few tips.
To remember
👉Set clear academic expectations with your teenager, involving them in the discussion and considering their potential.
👉Value your teenager's effort and perseverance, beyond the results
👉Encourage their interests for a positive learning environment.
Clarify academic expectations
Starting high school means big changes for your teenager in terms of time management, workload, number of teachers, etc. Not to mention possible separations from elementary school friends and other emotional upheavals. Of course, over time, your teenager will be more and more equipped to manage their daily school life, but you still have an important role to play in their journey.
Talk openly with your teenager about your shared goals for their academic success: empower them and set clear but realistic expectations based on their potential. Emphasize the importance of attending classes, turning in assignments on time, and preparing for exams - while keeping in mind that our youth are learning, and that they may test these limits.
Also, encourage your teenager to ask for help if they encounter difficulties, whether it's understanding certain courses, finding appropriate resources to catch up, or supervising their organization: your support can really help them develop their autonomy. The key is to encourage your teenager to learn responsibility, and to find your balance, together, between assistance and autonomy.
Value perseverance
To encourage your teenager in their academic journey, and to encourage them to share (at least a little) of their daily life at school with you, there is nothing like valuing their efforts and initiatives. Beyond their academic results, reassure your child that they are loved and valued, with their strengths and weaknesses.
Be attentive to their interests and make sure they can participate in extracurricular activities that will nurture their curiosity, stimulate them and strengthen their self-esteem and confidence (while being careful not to overload their schedule).
💡Cultivating healthy communication with your teenager about school helps create a positive learning environment.
