Well she got her daddy’s car
And she cruised through the hamburger stand now
Seems she forgot all about the library. (Beach Boys)
As the end of July approaches, parents and teens alike are reminded that the new school year is just around the corner. And while summer is a time for fun and relaxation, the impending return to school can cause stress and anxiety for many teens. From summer assignments to new academic expectations, the thought of a new school year can be overwhelming. As a parent, it’s important to address your teen’s concerns and provide support as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
One common source of stress for teens is the workload they will face in the new school year. Many schools assign summer reading and other projects that can be challenging to complete, especially for teens who have busy summer schedules. Encourage your teen to tackle their summer assignments early so that they can enjoy the remainder of their summer break without the added stress of last-minute work. Create a schedule, teach time management skills. Or reach out to Encouraging Teens for support with teaching these skills.
For many teens, the social aspect of school is just as important as academics. They may worry about fitting in, making new friends, or maintaining relationships with old ones. It’s important to listen to your teen’s concerns and validate their feelings, while also reminding them that friendships can change and evolve over time. Encourage your teen to get involved in activities or clubs that interest them, which can provide opportunities to meet new people with similar interests. If your teen is worried about their friendships as they head back to school, there’s a great resource available to them. Encouraging Teens has published a book titled “One Friend? Two Friends? Good Friend? Bad Friend?” that offers valuable insights into building and creating lifelong friendships. It’s a fantastic read for teens who are looking to deepen their friendships and create more meaningful connections. The book covers a wide range of topics related to teen friendships, including the different types of friends, how to recognize toxic friendships, and tips for building stronger connections with others. It also offers practical advice on how to navigate common friendship challenges, such as jealousy, conflicts, and social anxiety.
In addition to academic stress, teens may also be worried about the expectations that come with a new school year. Whether it’s the pressure to get good grades or to excel in extracurricular activities, teens may feel like they are constantly under scrutiny. Remind your teen that while it’s important to set goals and work hard, it’s equally important to take care of themselves and their mental health. For seniors in high school, the upcoming school year can be especially daunting as they prepare for life after graduation. They may be worried about college applications, job prospects, or simply the uncertainty of what comes next. As a parent, it’s important to offer support and guidance, but also to remember that your teen is on their own unique path.
July can be a stressful time for teens as they anticipate the upcoming school year. As a parent, it’s important to address your teens concerns, listen, offer guidance and help set your teen up for a successful school year. And don’t forget to check out Encouraging Teens’ resources, such as their teen life coaching services and the book on friendships, which can provide even more support and guidance for your teen.