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When my daughter began 11th grade just weeks ago, I’ll admit I felt the same trepidation I experienced when my son, now a college sophomore, started his junior year in high school.
Then I remembered this truth: While this third year of high school — sometimes lost between the excitement (and fear) of freshman year and the exaltation of senior year — can be intense, it’s also when our students hit their stride and take significant steps toward future goals. Junior year is a big year filled with big changes.
Remember that this big year filled with big changes will mean some big emotions. There may be feelings of frustration, stress and exhaustion. It’s a challenging time for parents as well as students.
Offer support and listen to your teen. Nurture their ability to problem solve, but get involved if things threaten to become overwhelming. Sometimes just creating a timetable with your student will help them see that everything can indeed get done. And don’t forget the need for balance. Make time for family fun, and enjoy these months you have left with your teen living under your roof. I know from experience it goes very fast.