Ideas for Parenting High School Students

Teaching Independence?

There are a couple of schools of thought when it comes to parenting. It's my belief that unless you want to create the next serial killer you need to start teaching your child independence in high school. Yes, teach them independence. It won't be fun. Either way is hard work. In Scenario One you could set very early curfews; restrict their overnight outings and generally watch everything they do. My feeling is you really aren't teaching them anything this way. You are merely exerting control rather than taking the opportunity to help your child learn 'self-control'. In Scenerio Two, you could decide on a more "popular" curfew or one in which parents have come to an agreement that will be a joint effort to monitor. For instance, in our city, children under the age of 17 are required to be in by 11pm. The city sets the curfew. Kids will still fight any curfew you set simply because you set it but they do need some type of structure to operate within. They want it.

Probably one of the most valuable things you can do is to not enable your child to stay a baby as he/she enters high school. Wean them from you over the next several years but always be there for when and if they need your help. You are still their primary role model and teacher.

Weekly Form

Homework Checker

The form in the above box can be a lifesaver if administered by your school. It can take the "monkey off your back" and put where it belongs -- on the student. The way in which it works is simple. The form should start with the student's counselor or advisor. They are the primary person that will have control not only over teachers but the student. The student should be soley responsible for taking this sheet to each teacher each week. The parent should have no involvement with the implementation of this whatsoever. Completed forms should be returned to the advisor's office and then mailed home. Let your school work with your student. Download Form