Parents and guardians want their teens to succeed in school – to be engaged and excited about learning; to build strong relationships with their teachers and peers; and to learn the knowledge and skills they need to be academically successful each year. 

However, it has not always been easy for parents and guardians to figure out what secondary learners should know and be able to do by the end of each grade – and how to discuss these topics with their children and their teachers. 

Moreover, while families are usually able to help if kids get stuck in the early grades, the content gets more challenging as students get older, and students gain more ownership over their learning. Suddenly, parents and guardians may feel like they do not have much help to offer. That is not the case. Research confirms that families still have a big role to play in helping students learn. It is just a different role. 

In addition to providing encouragement, a study of more than 50,000 students found that relating what middle and high school kids are learning in school to their future life goals is one of the most effective ways families can help. This is the time to encourage students to take more responsibility and be more independent; helping them take charge of their learning is important. 

Harvard Graduate School of Education (2009). Hill: Parents need to link schoolwork to future goals. http://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/09/05/hill-parents-need-link-schoolwork-future-goals. 

Content adapted from: https://achievethecore.org/category/1232/family-guides-supporting-learning