As a parent, you might be tempted to think that your high school student has everything they need to succeed but there's one crucial item that often gets overlooked in the back-to-school shopping frenzy: a good old-fashioned planner. Whether it’s an app, a classic paper notebook or a combination of the two, a planner is more than just a space to jot down homework. It’s an indispensable tool that can make a world of difference in helping young people to adult.
Why a Planner?
Remember those school planners handed out with the school logo splashed across the cover? They might have seemed like just another piece of school swag, but these planners play a critical role in teaching students essential time-management skills. Here’s why investing in a quality planner for your high schooler is so valuable:
Visualize the Week and Month Ahead
Planners allow students to see their assignments and deadlines in a clear, visual format. This means they can anticipate busy periods and plan accordingly. By having a bird's-eye view of their week or month, students can better balance their academic responsibilities with other activities.
Break Down Big Assignments
Large projects can be overwhelming. A planner helps students break them into manageable chunks with smaller deadlines. For example, if they have a research paper due in a month, they can set intermediate goals such as completing research, drafting, and revising. This incremental approach not only makes the task less daunting but also encourages consistent progress.
Weekly Planning and Time Blocking
Encourage your child to use their planner to block out time each week. This technique allows them to allocate specific periods for studying, extracurriculars, and even downtime. By visualizing how their week is structured, students learn to prioritize and make efficient use of their time, including leveraging weekends to catch up or get ahead.
Find Their Balance
Every student has their own rhythm and needs. Some might thrive with a detailed daily schedule, while others may prefer a broader weekly view. By experimenting with different planning methods, your child can discover what works best for them, which is crucial for maintaining balance and reducing stress.
Prepare for the Future
In college, students will need to manage their own schedules and deadlines. Middle and high school are the perfect times for them to practice these skills with a planner. It’s an opportunity to explore various organizational strategies and find what fits their personal style, setting them up for success in the future.
Making the Most of a Planner
Give your child a hand in choosing their planner—whether they prefer a classic paper version or a digital one. Involve them in setting up their planner at the start of each school year, and encourage them to make it a habit to update it regularly. The more engaged they are in the process, the more effective it will be. By helping your student develop these skills now, you’re setting them up for academic success and professional growth for the years to come.
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