High school is a huge step for kids. They are becoming teenagers, spreading their proverbial wings and figuring out who they are and what they may want out of life. But as much as they may seem grown-up or mature compared to their younger selves, they still need parental guidance and wisdom.
A large part of their journey into adulthood includes academics. Upon entering high school, students can start branching out and choosing different electives. Often, the choices for extracurricular activities are also expanded. Many high schools even offer specific course recommendations for career paths or dual credit courses for junior and senior students.
It can be a bit overwhelming for students and parents to choose the most beneficial classes. Below are some expert tips to simplify the course selection process for you and your high schooler.
Talk With The Guidance Counselor
Begin the course selection process by speaking to your child’s school guidance counselor. Your student’s guidance counselor can supply course descriptions and the information you need to navigate class choices.
The role of a School Counselor is to help students with goal setting, academic planning, and success; they are a vital part of the academic team.
Know What Courses Are Required
There are some grade-level limitations on courses available to students. Freshmen, in particular, won’t be able to choose most of their classes. Each state has a required list of courses that students must complete to graduate. These classes are often ‘core subjects’ such as English/Language Arts, Math, Science, History and Foreign Language.
You can find a state-by-state course requirements list here; however, always check with the school for accuracy. The counselor can help you understand the current requirements and the course completion order.
Take Classes That Spark Interest
This season of life is when teens can try new interests and activities with little risk. Encourage your teen to stretch their comfort zones when choosing electives. Or, if they are confident in their strengths, have them lean into those.
Electives can motivate students to attend school, increase academic success, and improve mental health. They can also be a place of community and help students form new friendships.
Look To The Future
When choosing electives, extracurriculars, or clubs, ensure your teen considers what line of work or college degree they want to pursue after high school.
Some high schools have implemented career tracks starting as early as sophomore year. These classes allow students to dive into specific subject matter more quickly, gain experience, and increase odds of employment in that field.
Consider Advanced Placement Or Honors Classes
Choosing the right balance between challenging and easier classes is very personal. If your child excels in a particular subject, it may be worth them taking the advanced or honors version of that class.
These courses are often similar to college classes in the required amount of studying and homework. While they are more work, these classes look good during college enrollment, are sometimes weighted in GPA configuration, and can boost your teen, especially if they can maintain a high grade.
Examine The Benefits Of Dual Credit Courses
When planning your child’s junior and senior year, see what dual credit courses and universities your school partners with. The workload with these courses is heavier, and class times may impede extracurricular activities. However, the gains can be significant. Students often pay nothing for the credits, and they can begin taking generalized education courses to get them out of the way.
There are typically some qualifications and restrictions when applying for these programs, so again, talk to your guidance counselor.
Keep Life Balance
Remember that even though high school choices are important, teens are still growing and maturing and their brains are still developing. Make sure that you and your student consider homework load, leave downtime in their schedule and incorporate time for sports and hobbies. Not setting aside time for friendships, physical activity and hobbies can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression.
Set Them Up For Success
No matter what types of classes you and your child choose, there are ways to help set them up to perform at their best. Make sure that your teen gets quality, regular amounts of sleep. Research has shown that older teens require more sleep than younger peers.
Teach your teen time management before school starts. Knowing how long specific tasks take, building a system or set of tools that works for them, and showing them how to use time as a resource are vital life skills for your child.
If your kids are learning at home, check out our list of 15 Great Free Homeschool Resources For Curriculum And Extras.
