september 7, 2026

Play a Key role in your teen's learning this year

The most influential teacher your teen will have in the new school year is you. To support school success, help your teen develop a game plan: When is your teen most alert for studying? How much sleep does your student need to be sharp in the morning? Together, figure out what enables your teen's best effort and stick to it. Then, show that learning is important by asking about it every day. And encourage your teen to pursue new interests. Mastering a new skill may inspire your student to tackle other challenges.

study success starts with a daily habit

Establishing one study habit right from the start will help your teen achieve in the year to come. Encourage your student to spend a few minutes each evening reviewing the day's class notes. While your teen still remembers what the teacher said, it's time to clarify anything that is unclear and add any thoughts that will make it easier to study for tests. If anything is still confusing, your teen can make a note to ask the teacher about it.

routines beat reminderst for boosting motivation

Managing your teen's every move encourages obedience, not motivation. Motivation happens when teens feel, from within, a reason to act. Encourage your teen to create routines to rely on instead of your reminders. Routines work well for responsibilities such as schoolwork (schedule a time and place to do it) and chores (establish duties and deadlines).

get off to a good start this year

Your student may be growing up, but the need for your engagement with school hasn't gone away. Your teen still needs your support and you still need to know how your teen is doing. To get the new year off to a good start, touch base with your teen's teachers and give them your contact information. Ask your student questions about classes, such as "Who is the first author you'll be reading in English?" And plan to participate in school events or presentations for families; it shows that your teen and your teen’s education are a priority.

show that learing is a family priority

When your teen is learning math or chemistry or a foreign language that you don't know, you may wonder how to reinforce the learning. The best way is to create a family life where learning is valued. Encourage your teen to research and explore. Ask your student to explain schoolwork to you. If your teen is struggling, ask the teachers how you can help. Then, reinforce the value of learning by showing respect for your teen's efforts and recognizing progress.

find out about higher education options

Your teen may be focused on the beginning of school, but it's not too early to start thinking about life after graduation. Does your teen enjoy designing, making and repairing things? Is your student interested in contributing to a business sooner rather than later? If so, your teen may want to consider going to a technical, business or trade school. You and your teen can discuss the wide array of post-graduation education options with a school counselor.

correcting rudeness is worth the time

When you speak to your teen, do you get an eye roll in response? When teens are rude to their families, they are often rude to others. Rudeness can take some time to correct. Start by looking at how others in your family behave. If teasing, insults and wisecracks are normal, work on changing this behavior. If not, talk to your student. Make it clear that you expect your teen to treat everyone with the same respect that your teen wishes to receive. The bonus for your teen? Showing others respect increases self-respect.

Brought to you by:

Gwinnett County Public Schools

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