Today's Tip for Families

[En español]

10-27-2023

Give Your Teen a Confidence Boost

Sometimes, students don’t do their schoolwork because they lack confidence. They’re afraid they won’t be able to do it, so they avoid it altogether. Some well-directed praise can make a huge difference.

Try these suggestions with your teen:

• Be positive. You might say, “Analyzing poetry can be challenging. But I know you—and I know you can do it! Would you like me to help you get started? Let’s take a look at it together. What do you see?”
• Be encouraging. Remember to praise effort and progress as well as success.
• Be specific. For example, “You didn’t give up on that problem. Good for you!” Reinforce your praise with a hug, a smile or a pat on the back.

And sometimes, let your teen overhear you tell someone, “Riley did homework today without any reminders, and studied for the Spanish test for an hour. I am so proud!”

Brought to you by:

Gwinnett County Public Schools

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