High School, Here We Come! Tips for BOTH Teens and Parents
The high school journey is an exciting new chapter filled with fresh faces, tougher classes, new academic challenges and a whole lot more independence—for both teens and parents. But let’s be real, it can also come with its fair share of nerves.
To help make the transition a little smoother, we’ve pulled together some tips for both teens and parents.
For Teens:
Embrace Change: High school comes with a ton of changes - new classes, teachers, and friends. It can feel like a lot all at once, but instead of fighting it, try to see it as a chance to grow and learn. It may be helpful to also have some safety built into your days – is there a safe or familiar person you could catch up with during or after school to debrief (aka spill the tea)? Perhaps you could bring your favourite snack or lunch to look forward to at the end of the day.
Set a Routine: Create a daily schedule that includes time for homework, hobbies, and chilling out. Having a routine can make life feel more stable and help reduce stress as you get used to high school.
Manage Your Time: With increased responsibilities comes the need to focus on time management skills. Using planners or digital app to keep track of assignments, projects, and important dates, allows you to prioritize effectively. It may be helpful to share these dates with your parent or caregiver so that they can also help keep you on track.
Make Besties: High school is a great time to build friendships, but remember to have a few great friends rather than a lot of so-so ones. Surround yourself with supportive and positive peeps who align with your values and make you feel good about yourself.
Be Upfront: Feelings of stress and overwhelm are common. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, teachers, or family members when you need help. Open communication can help ease anxiety and help others understand what you need.
Take care of yourself: Make time for activities that promote your mental and physical well-being, such as exercising, pursuing hobbies, or simply chilling. A healthy mind and body are key for facing high school highs and lows.
Get Help When Needed: If things are feeling too heavy, consider talking to a counsellor or therapist. It’s totally okay to need help when you’re struggling, and it’s a step towards taking care of your mental health.
For Parents:
Be Supportive, Not Controlling: As your child navigates high school, they will crave independence. Support their autonomy by providing guidance instead of control. Trust them to make decisions and be there to help when needed.
Encourage Open Dialogue: Create an environment where your teen feels comfortable discussing their feelings and experiences. Regular family check-ins can reinforce this bond and keep communication lines open.
Set Realistic Expectations: While it’s important to encourage academic success, it’s equally vital to set realistic expectations. Understand that high school will be filled with ups and downs -- try to focus, and talk about, effort rather than just outcomes.
Monitor Stress Levels: High school can be a pressure cooker of stress due to academic demands and social dynamics. Keep an eye on your child’s stress levels and adjust expectations or responsibilities as necessary.
Promote Balance: Encourage your teen to maintain a balanced life by participating in activities beyond academics. Sports, arts, and social gatherings can provide essential outlets for stress and help develop a well-rounded individual.
Get Involved: Show interest in your child’s school life by attending events, volunteering, or simply asking about their day-to-day experiences. Your involvement can help them feel supported and connected.
Recognize Signs of Struggle: Be aware of changes in behaviour or mood. If your teen appears unusually withdrawn, anxious, or upset, consider seeking the help of a mental health professional to address their needs.
High school is a big adventure for both teens and parents, packed with chances to grow, learn, and connect. By embracing this journey with open hearts and minds, you can tackle this transition with confidence. Whether you’re a teen or a parent, every step toward understanding and support helps make the high school experience a win for everyone.
This post was written by wellbe’s registered social worker, Jordan Virtue. If you or your teens are in need of support, you can book an in-person or virtual visit with our social workers here.