Skipping breakfast may prompt students to think about their next meal instead of the morning lessons. Ask for a school calendar that includes a listing of school activities, events and holidays. Post the calendar where everyone is likely to look at it or transfer the dates to a family calendar. Checking the calendar regularly and talking about upcoming events or activities can reduce stress levels. Talk about goals.
Students have a multitude of opportunities, but can easily be overwhelmed by the choices.
Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about what interests them most. For example, a younger child may want to sample several activities, while an older child who is interested in a legal career might want to focus on forensics. Another student, who may have an interest in library science or languages, may want to bypass some after-school activities and participate in a volunteer program helping younger students with reading skills. Attending can help parents and children evaluate the opportunities. A child's age, interests and health, as well as other demands on parents and the family as a whole, can all impact the decision-making process.