Eighth grade graduation is just around the corner, and your middle schooler is preparing for the days of high school. By now, they should have taken a tour of the high school, met with the high school guidance counselor, and hopefully picked out their classes for the first year. High school is an exciting time, but it can be stressful and overwhelming for your student. It’s important to remember to keep your student calm, and encourage them through this change. Lake Forrest Prep, an Orlando private school has outlined four things to consider when preparing for high school.
- Academics
Surely high school classes and workload will vary significantly from middle school, which is why it’s important for your child to have good study habits in place. Talk with them about finding opportunities during the day or at school to study. Many high schools are starting to offer a free period for students to talk to teachers, do homework, and catch up on school work. Make sure your student takes advantage of this opportunity if it’s allotted to them. Encourage your student to have an open dialogue with their teachers and educators, and, as a parent, it’s important for you to do the same as well. This will help to ensure you are all on the same page for your child’s academic goals.
- Extracurricular Activities
If your student has plans to participate in sports, performing arts, or other clubs, keep in mind that many high schools require a certain academic standard. Inform yourself and your student of the requirements it will demand from them academically as well as be aware of the time demands if will have on your student.
- Social Life
High school offers a lot of great opportunities for your student to blossom socially. Encourage your student to find and make friends that align with their moral goals. High school can offer a lot of peer pressure to win a popularity game, but it’s important to encourage your student to be who they are.
- Mentally
Schedule, workload, and social life will be different for your student during high school, so it’s important that they are mentally prepared not just for the first day, but for the rest of the years to come. Encourage your student to find some quiet time to contemplate their goals. Before the first day of school, have your student plan their clothes according to the dress code, and set it out the night before. Talk with your student about setting their alarm early so that they can make time for anything that might come up unexpectedly.
The most important advice to give your student about high school is to have fun. Some days will be stressful and some days will be enjoyable, but if your Orlando private school keeps a positive attitude, then they will enjoy their high school career. For more helpful tips, check out our blog.
