Just because your child brings home A's and B's does not mean they have it all together. Balance isn't easy whether you are in 6th grade, 12th grade, or in the work force full time.
Struggling and stressing out about responsibilities is easy to relate to even if you have been out of school for several years. The following mistakes and solutions will help alleviate some of the pain of achievement.
Procrastination followed by cramming
Putting off what has to be done leads to a bad cycle of being consistently behind the eight ball. Sooner or later this habit will catch up to them. Taking on the attitude of "Just do it" can relieve the pressure and allows time for relaxation without watching tasks pile up.
Perfectionism means no rest
Some kids take the "do it now" mantra to an extreme. Always working is not healthy either. Finish the assignment and then put it away. Doing your best work does not have to include over-analyzing and second guessing. Obviously not all kids share this problem, but it is just as important to remind these children that it is okay to make a mistake now and then.
No plan, no focus
Write down assignments and take the time to prioritize before starting. Pulling out math and then spending an hour on Facebook, then remembering about the history exam and so on, is no way to spend an evening. Help your child make a plan and stick to it.
Disorganization blamed on busyness
Piles of papers and messy desks, beds, closets, and bags can make everyday tasks harder than they need to be. Cleaning up takes less time than searching for lost items and can make it easier to handle responsibilities.
Too talented to care
Some students are just naturally talented, for a time. Remind your child not to let the complacency of being better than their peers lead to not trying. Maintaining good study habits and sticking to a practice schedule is important regardless of where they fall in the class.
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