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Show Adolescents need structure to study wel I, research shows Teacher to Parent t) by Betty Condie Teenagers insist they can work in front of the TV or with the stereo at ear-breaking decibel levels. Research shows otherwise. Here are some ideas to help your child develop good habits and do his or her best in school. Provide a time and place to work. Show interest in your child's work. Ask questions, but don't nag and don't offer to do the work. Make your child understand the consequences when assignments are not completed. com-pleted. Express your concern, but don't aggravate the situation by scolding. Teenagers often rebel against pressure. Be skeptical if you constantly hear, "I don't have any homework," or, "I did it in study hall." If grades aren't good, ask why. Get a clear answer. Contact the school if you're unsure. Set an example. Turn off the TV. Read. Discuss your work, what you're reading, why education is important im-portant to you personally. Encourage activities as well as academics. Most secondary schools offer many activities beyond the school day. They range from sports to artistic ar-tistic pursuits to academic enrichment. enrich-ment. Extracurricular activities are not only fun, they teach leadership skills, encourage teamwork and foster responsibility. One word of caution: To some teenagers, these activities become more important than schoolwork. Students must recognize that these are supplements to, not substitutes for, their major goal: a good education. educa-tion. : Many districts restrict participation participa-tion in activities unless students meet certain academic standards. Check the policy at your school . Academics and activities can help make the school years more productive. |