Setting Goals for School

Online Success Coach: Unlocking Your Teen’s Potential

Posted on April 7, 2023April 7, 2023 by John Hyde in Setting Goals for School

A woman feeling accomplished after working with an online success coach

As a parent, you want your teen to succeed academically and in life. But what do you do when your teen struggles to keep up with their academic performance or fails to meet their goals? It can be frustrating, confusing, and even disheartening. But there is hope.

An online success coach can help your teen achieve their goals and overcome the challenges holding them back. This article will explore how an online success coach can make a difference and how to find the right coach for your teen.

Common Challenges Faced by Struggling Students

Before diving into how an online success coach can help, let’s look at some common challenges that struggling students face.

Lack of motivation: Your teen may struggle to find the motivation to do their schoolwork or pursue their goals.

Poor time management: Your teen may struggle to manage their time effectively, leading to missed deadlines and poor grades.

Difficulty staying organized: Your teen may struggle to track assignments and due dates.

Lack of study skills: Your teen may not have developed practical study skills, making learning and retaining information difficult.

Low self-esteem: Your teen may feel down on themselves, impacting their academic performance.

Unfortunately, many of these challenges are compounded by schools focusing more on content than skills. Developing these skills is essential to long-term and sustained academic success. An online success coach can help your teen develop these skills and find a path forward.

How an Online Success Coach Can Help Your Teen Overcome These Challenges

An online success coach can provide your teen personalized support and guidance to overcome these challenges.

A compass symbolizing the personalized support and guidance of an online success coach

An online Success Coach Provides Personalized Support and Guidance

One of the biggest reasons teens struggle in the classroom is that school has become increasingly impersonal. School treats students like numbers instead of individuals, and teachers have too many responsibilities to give students one-on-one time.

An online success coach can work one-on-one with your teen to understand their unique needs and develop a plan to help them achieve their goals.

By getting to know each client personally, an online success coach can create a tailored plan to help them identify and overcome obstacles hindering their progress toward success.

This individualized support can include setting realistic goals, developing strategies to achieve those goals, and providing accountability and support throughout the journey. Through regular communication and feedback, an online success coach can help your teen stay focused, motivated, and on track.

A Coach Can Help Your Teen Set Achievable Goals

An online success coach can be a valuable resource for helping teenagers set achievable behavior-based goals.

Many teen’s focus on outcome instead of behavior. This is a recipe for disaster. An online success coach can identify specific behaviors or habits hindering academic success, such as procrastination, poor time management, or lack of motivation.

Based on this information, the coach can help your teenager set realistic and achievable behavior-based goals that address these issues. If your teenager struggles with procrastination, their coach may suggest setting a goal to complete homework assignments at a specific time each day.

By focusing on specific behaviors rather than just academic outcomes, your teenager can build positive habits to improve academic performance. The ongoing support and guidance an online success coach provides can help your teenager stay accountable and motivated. Ultimately, this can significantly impact your teenager’s academic success and set them up for success in their future endeavors.

Your Teen Will Learn Effective Study Skills

An online success coach can be instrumental in helping your teenager develop practical study skills that can positively impact their academic performance. With the support of a coach, your teen can identify the most effective study techniques based on their learning style and preferences.

Your teen can learn strategies like breaking down large assignments into smaller tasks, using flashcards, creating study guides, or developing a consistent study schedule. The coach can also help teenagers establish practical time management skills to balance their academic responsibilities with other essential activities.

By working with an online success coach, your teenager can gain the skills and confidence to approach their academic work with greater focus, efficiency, and success. As a result, they can achieve better grades, feel more confident in their abilities, and be better prepared for future academic challenges.

The impact of developing practical study skills can extend beyond the classroom, as these skills can also be valuable in other areas of life, such as in future career endeavors.

Coaches Improve Your Teen’s Time Management and Organizational Skills

One of the areas that teenagers struggle the most is with time management and organization. Your teenager can succeed in school but will likely struggle if they lack these skills.

Unfortunately, your teen probably did not receive instruction on these essential abilities in the classroom. An online success coach can help them develop the skills to manage their time and organize their schoolwork.

Through personalized coaching sessions, an online success coach can work with your teenager to identify their strengths and weaknesses regarding time management and organization. They can help your teenager develop practical strategies for managing their time more effectively, such as prioritizing tasks, setting deadlines, and breaking down large projects into smaller, more manageable tasks.

Additionally, the coach can help your teenager develop better organizational skills, such as keeping track of assignments and due dates, maintaining an organized workspace, and developing effective note-taking strategies.

By improving their time management and organizational skills, your teenager can reduce stress and anxiety, become more efficient in completing tasks, and ultimately achieve better grades. Moreover, these skills can also benefit other areas of their life, such as their future career endeavors.

confidence is an important trait for students

Boosts Confidence and Motivation

Even the best students struggle with confidence and motivation, and these two traits can be the difference between success and failure in high school.

By building a solid relationship with your teen and demonstrating their interest in your teen’s success, an online success coach is uniquely positioned to help your teen boost their confidence and motivation.

An online success coach can work with your teenager to identify their strengths and weaknesses and help them develop a growth mindset. Some steps an online success coach can take include setting achievable goals and developing strategies to overcome obstacles and setbacks.

By providing positive reinforcement and encouragement, an online success coach can help your teenager build confidence in their abilities and feel motivated to take on new challenges. This boost in confidence and motivation can significantly impact their academic performance, as it can help them overcome self-doubt, push past obstacles, and achieve better results.

More importantly, this can also positively impact their overall well-being, leading to increased self-esteem, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Overall, an online success coach can provide valuable support and guidance to help your teenager become more confident, motivated, and successful in all aspects of their life.

Finding the Right Online Success Coach for Your Teen

Finding the right online success coach for your teenager can be daunting, but it’s essential. One way to start is by looking for coaches who specialize in academic coaching. An academic coach has the necessary skills and experience to help your teenager achieve their academic goals.

If you want to learn more about how I can help your teenager as an online success coach, I invite you to book a free call with me. Together, we can discuss your teenager’s needs and goals and develop a plan to help them succeed.

About the Author: John Hyde

I am an educational coach specializing in teaching students academic fundamentals and a growth mindset.

After graduating from Duke University in 2015, I taught at a public middle school from 2016 to 2019. Although I loved working with students in the classroom, the public education system was not teaching students the skills essential to academic success.

I left the classroom in 2019 to start Academic Empowerment Academy. Since then, my coaching program has helped hundreds of students realize their academic potential by assisting them in building confidence and empowering them with the skills and mindset to meet their goals in school and life.

If you’d like to discuss how I can help your teen be more motivated, foster good habits, and improve academic organization/performance, Book a Complimentary Discovery Call Here.

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Author Spotlight

Hi I’m John, author of this blog, academic coach, and founder of AE Academy.

I help teens reach their academic potential by empowering them with academic fundamentals, a growth mindset, and critical thinking.

If your teen is struggling to reach their academic potential, or isn’t learning the skills they need to succeed in school, we should connect.

It’s on me – Book Your Free Call Here

unpleasant black girl sitting at table between parents

Consequences For Not Doing Homework

Posted on March 10, 2023March 10, 2023 by John Hyde in Setting Goals for School

Teenagers don’t like homework, and can you blame them? Just like you don’t like working after hours on your job, your teen doesn’t like to work all day at school and then come home and do more.

However, like it or not, homework is something that your child has to do.

Unfortunately, you can’t force your teen to do homework. If you try to, a power struggle is likely to ensue. If you know anything about teenagers, it’s that they want to be independent and do things their way.

So what’s a parent to do?

Many parents consider the consequences for not doing homework, and reasonably so. You want your child to put their best foot forward and maximize their potential in the classroom.

However, it is important to remember that it is your teenager’s responsibility to do their homework, not yours.

What Causes Parents To Give Consequences For Not Doing Homework

Many parents operate in a state of fear. Fear that a lousy test will lead to a bad grade means their child will drop out of high school, won’t get a job, and will still live at home when they are 30. The connection between these events may be dubious, but many parents still fall victim to this thinking.

As a result, parents fall into a trap. I call it the illusion of a win, which is very tempting. When your teenager isn’t doing your homework, you get on their case and won’t let them leave the house until they turn it in. Or if they have missing assignments, you ground them until they get caught up.

Getting your child to turn in their homework might make you feel like you are teaching them a valuable lesson, but what are they learning?

Let students experience natural consequences for not doing hoemwork

Your teen is learning they are incapable and need someone else to help them with their responsibilities. They realize they can’t do their homework without your oversight and help. They are learning to be dependent on you.

The fear of their teenager’s failure often leads parents to embark on a path that makes the worst-case scenario more likely. A teen dependent on their parents is far more likely to live at home at 30 than a strong and independent one.

Instead of considering punishment for not doing schoolwork, a better approach is to let them experience the natural consequences. Their teachers will give them bad grades, and they might get in trouble.

After they experience the natural consequences of missing that assignment, they can learn from the experience and, more importantly, recognize that they are responsible for their school work and that there is no power struggle.

Without a power struggle, teens are likelier to take responsibility for their work and own their responsibilities.

Instead of focusing on what they are doing (homework), spend more time showing them HOW to do it. Here are some tips to avoid getting consequences for not doing homework.

1. Establish a Routine To Avoid Consequences for Not Doing Homework

A routine will set you free.

One of the best skills you can teach your teenager is a routine. Carving out specific time for them each day dedicated to homework is a great way to empower your teen to take care of their responsibilities.

Make sure that the routine works for both of you. Set specific times and places to do homework, such as after school in their bedroom or dining table.

Creating a routine will give your teen the structure they need to act independently while still getting the support they need.

Give your teen space instead of conseqeunces for not doing homework

2. Give them space When Doing Homework

It may be tempting to hover over your teen’s shoulder while doing homework and ensure they do each problem correctly. However, this does not teach them independence. In fact, they may learn to depend on you to get their homework done.

Your job is to be there when they need help or guidance, not to take over their homework. Instead, give them space and let them learn how to navigate their assignments.

You might be surprised your child is willing to ask for your help when you give them space to try independently.

3. Teach them Organizational and Time Management Skills To Avoid Consequences

One of the best ways to help your teen get their homework done and avoid consequences for not doing homework is to teach them the skills they need to do their homework instead of focusing on the assignment itself.

Organizational and time management skills are crucial for completing schoolwork and staying on top of assignments. Teaching your teen how to manage their time will help them become more independent and responsible.

Show your teenager how to organize their backpack, use folders, and take notes. But leave it up to your teen to use these skills when completing homework.

Additionally, you can show your child how to estimate how long it will take to complete their homework. Estimating how long it will take will help your teen learn how to manage time and prioritize tasks to get their work done promptly.

Praise is better than punishment for not doing schoolwork

4. Give behavior-based praise Instead of Consequences for Not Doing Homework

Many parents make the mistake of praising the outcome rather than the effort. Studies have shown that this is counterproductive and can make students less likely to do the work in the future.

Instead of praising your child for their score on a test or homework, praise the effort they are putting in. If you see your child hard at work, praise them for it. Tell them you are proud of their dedication if they stay late to finish an assignment.

Behavior-based praise will help your teen develop a healthy work ethic and make them more motivated.

5. Model the behavior you want to see

They may not act like it, but you are your teenager’s number one role model. They closely watch you to see how you do your work and responsibilities.

If you want them to take their school work seriously, ensure you show this behavior through your actions. Show that you take the time to do all your tasks thoroughly and with dedication, which will help encourage your child to do the same.

You can also show them how to organize your work materials or use math daily. Seeing how you apply the same skills and content they are learning in school will demonstrate to your child that education is essential and that they should take it seriously.

An academic coach can help you prevent consequences for not doing homework

6. Work With an Academic Coach Instead of using Punishment For Not Doing Homework

Getting your teenager the correct type of academic support is a great way to avoid getting consequences for not doing homework.

An academic coach can help your teen develop the essential skills to complete their work independently. An academic coach can also provide support and guidance, so your teen does not feel overwhelmed.

Additionally, the presence of an academic coach can make it much easier for you to take a step back because a coach can keep you in the loop and let you know what steps are being taken. This type of communication can alleviate the pressure you might feel to jump in and intercede.

If you think this type of support would benefit you and your teenager, let’s talk. I’ve helped hundreds of students handle their homework independently and build the skills they need for long-term success. Your teen could be next.

About the Author: John Hyde

I am an educational coach specializing in teaching students academic fundamentals and a growth mindset.

If you’d like to discuss how I can help your teen be more motivated, foster good habits, and improve academic organization/performance, Book a Complimentary Discovery Call Here.

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Author Spotlight

Hi I’m John, author of this blog, academic coach, and founder of AE Academy.

I help teens reach their academic potential by empowering them with academic fundamentals, a growth mindset, and critical thinking.

If your teen is struggling to reach their academic potential, or isn’t learning the skills they need to succeed in school, we should connect.

It’s on me – Book Your Free Call Here

7 Secrets to Motivating Teenagers

Posted on February 27, 2023March 8, 2023 by John Hyde in Setting Goals for School

Motivating teenagers can be incredibly difficult. Their emotions can run in highs and lows, and they can be highly engaged with topics they are interested in and then check out the next minute.

Many parents use punishment and negative reinforcement when teenagers struggle to stay academically motivated.

I’m here to tell you that this approach is not only ineffective, but it can even have the opposite effect. Fortunately, there are other ways to motivate your teenager that don’t involve punishment and can help create a more positive and encouraging environment.

As an academic coach and a classroom teacher, I discovered the secret to motivating teenagers. Please keep reading to learn about the seven secrets I’ve uncovered to motivate teenagers and help them build a positive work ethic.

1. Accept Mistakes When Motivating Teenagers

One of the biggest reasons many teens feel unmotivated is the emphasis that adults put on what they do wrong. Many parents are hyper-focused on the mistakes their teens make. Instead of encouraging their teens to learn from their mistakes, this approach causes them to check out and feel like everything they do is wrong.

When motivating teenagers, it is crucial to focus on the positive. Acknowledge their hard work and successes, even if they are small. When teens make mistakes, it’s important to point out what they did well and use it as an opportunity for growth.

Accept mistakes as part of their learning process. This acceptance will help your teenager to keep trying, not be discouraged by failure, and stay motivated.

2. Give Teenagers Independence to Motivate Them

Giving a teenager when they lack motivation may seem counterproductive. However, it is vital to recognize the importance of independence and autonomy for motivating teenagers.

Teenagers are at a stage developmentally where they are ready to take on new responsibilities, make their place in the world, and become more independent.

By giving them independence and allowing them to make their own decisions, you motivate them by showing that you trust them. This trust will help them to be more confident and willing to try new things.

Independence also gives teenagers a sense of agency and control over their lives, empowering them to work hard. Without this sense of empowerment, many teenagers will check out because they don’t feel a sense of ownership over their actions.

3. Speak their Language When Motivating Teenagers

When trying to motivate a teenager, it may be tempting to fall back on statements like:

You will need this when you are older!
College is essential and will help you get a better job.
Do you want to work an entry-level job your entire life?

While statements like this may make perfect sense for your adult brain, they won’t motivate teenagers. In fact, they may even alienate your teenager and make them less likely to work hard.

Instead of what makes sense to you, focus on what they care about. Listen to your teenager and make sure you are speaking their language. Find out what motivates them and use that to encourage them to work hard and stay motivated.

For example, if they struggle to finish their homework, let them know they can spend more time with their friends if their grades are good. If they are behind in math, explain that it will help them understand the world around them and show them some real-world examples.

Speaking to your teenager on their terms will make them more likely to stay engaged in what you’re saying and be more motivated to work hard.

A reward system is a great method for motivating teenagers

4. Create a Reward System

We are all motivated by rewards. 99% of adults would not go to work if they were not paid. For some reason, teenagers are expected to be different. Their only reward for academic performance is grades, which have very little social or economic value.

Instead of expecting teenagers to be motivated because they need good grades to get into college or a good job, you can create a reward system for the behaviors you want to see. Whether completing their homework on time, studying for a test or getting good grades – create a reward system for each.

This reward system can be anything from earning points that can be exchanged for something they want or a simple “good job” from the parent. It is vital to make sure the reward is motivating and achievable.

Creating a reward system motivates your teenager to take charge and take responsibility for their success and will empower them to stay motivated and work hard.

5. Use Praise When Motivating Teenagers

We live in an overwhelming negative world. The focus is almost always on the mistakes that people make.

A great example is school grades. You can only make one or two mistakes on a test to get an A. Teenagers learn to avoid mistakes at all costs, which is a negative perspective to take on the world.

When motivating teenagers, it is crucial to stay positive. Instead of focusing on the negative, focus on their progress. Acknowledge their hard work and praise them for it.

Motivating teenagers through praise and positive reinforcement creates a safe space where they can thrive and grow. They will be more willing to take risks and learn from their mistakes, motivating them to work hard and develop a positive work ethic.

Asking questions is the key to motivating teenagers

6. Ask Questions

One of the best secrets to motivating teenagers is to ask them questions and avoid telling them what to do. Instead of lecturing or instructing them on a task, ask them how they think they should proceed first.

By asking questions, you create an environment where the teenager feels free to think and explore new ideas. Asking them for their solution also implies trust and belief in their ability to solve the problem.

Asking questions is a great way to motivate teenagers because it helps them take ownership of their work. It makes them feel like they are in control and can make decisions for themselves.

7. Get Guilt-Free Academic Support

The final secret to motivating teenagers is providing them with guilt-free academic support. Most academic support comes in the form of tutors who cover specific topics and subjects. Many families only hire tutors after their teenager has done poorly on a test or is underperforming overall.

Hiring a tutor in response to poor performance creates a negative learning environment and implies the student is doing something wrong. Instead of waiting for the teenager to fail, look for opportunities to provide them with academic support that isn’t attached to academic performance.

Working with an academic coach is an excellent way of accomplishing this. An academic coach can support and guide your teenager, motivating them to work hard and stay focused on their studies.

Instead of focusing on a specific subject, an academic coach focuses on the holistic growth of a teenager and prioritizes their long-term growth over short-term academic performance.

If you think working with an academic coach is the proper support for your teenager, let’s chat.

I’m an experienced academic coach specializing in motivating teenagers and helping them reach their academic potential.

I’m passionate about motivating teenagers and helping them reach their academic potential. Let’s chat today and make a plan to help your teenager stay motivated and achieve their educational goals.

About the Author: John Hyde

I am an educational coach specializing in teaching students academic fundamentals and a growth mindset.

If you’d like to discuss how I can help your teen be more motivated, foster good habits, and improve academic organization/performance, Book a Complimentary Discovery Call Here.

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Author Spotlight

Hi I’m John, author of this blog, academic coach, and founder of AE Academy.

I help teens reach their academic potential by empowering them with academic fundamentals, a growth mindset, and critical thinking.

If your teen is struggling to reach their academic potential, or isn’t learning the skills they need to succeed in school, we should connect.

It’s on me – Book Your Free Call Here

Stressed From School? 10 Tips To Help

Posted on January 16, 2023January 21, 2023 by John Hyde in Setting Goals for School

10 tips to stop being stressed from school

A recent National Centre of Youth Mental Health study found that 66% of high school students self-reported feeling stressed about school. The same study found that 55% of students felt anxious about taking tests and studying.

Given students’ high-stress levels, it is unsurprising that many teenagers struggle to meet their academic potential. Stress can cause students to become avoidant or burn out. It can also negatively affect their sleep and physical health, leading to compromised cognitive function.

So, how can we help teens decrease and manage their stress? Keep reading to learn about teens’ most common sources of stress and ten tips that can help reduce stress levels and improve academic performance.

10 Tips On How to Stop Being Stressed From School

These ten tips can help your teen manage stress and stay on top of academics. I recommend identifying the one or two tips that resonate the most with your teen and helping them incorporate the tip into their life.

high quality sleep can help you stop being stressed from school

1. Stop Being Stressed By Getting High-quality Sleep

Sleep is essential for cognitive function and managing stress levels. Your teen should prioritize getting enough sleep each night, even if it means cutting back on extracurricular activities.

Screen time can also hurt sleep quality. Encourage your teen to stop using their phone 30-45 minutes before bed to help improve the quality of their sleep.

Implementing these two easy fixes can make a huge difference and help your teen stop being stressed from school.

2. Exercise to Stop Feeling Stressed

Studies have demonstrated that exercise is one of the most effective methods for managing and reducing stress levels.

Incorporating exercise into your teen’s routine can help them manage stress and improve their physical health. It can be as simple as a daily walk or an extracurricular activity.

A positive environment can help your teen to stop being stressed from school

3. Create a Positive Environment Around School

Many teens feel academics are a negative topic and feel pressure to succeed. Unfortunately, families are often the source of this pressure and this contributes to being stressed from school.

Encourage your teen to focus on personal growth and learning instead of grades. Celebrating the effort, they put into academics rather than focusing on the outcome can help create a positive environment for learning.

Additionally, I highly encourage you to reflect and consider how you perceive your teen’s academics. You can pass on any stress or negative emotions to them.

4. Help Your Teen Work Smarter, Not Harder

This tip can take a while to pay off, but the benefits can be massive. Many teens resort to brute force methods when studying. This style may have worked in middle school, but as the content becomes more complex and their responsibilities increase, it becomes less effective. Show your teen how to prioritize their work and tasks, starting with the most important or pressing ones.

You can also help them study more efficiently by teaching them helpful study techniques, such as creating flashcards or making personalized study guides. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this, academic coaches are an excellent resource for teaching your teen practical study skills.

5. Create a Schedule or Routine to Reduce Academic Stress

Consistency will set you free. Unfortunately, creating a schedule or doing anything regularly is a big challenge for most teens. Helping your teen complete a daily/weekly schedule or routine can help them stay organized and on top of their tasks and reduce their stress levels.

An excellent way to start is to help your teen create a list of daily tasks they need to complete (i.e., check their agenda, do homework, study, etc.). As they get more comfortable with this, they can transition to planning their weeks and scheduling things like homework, studying practice, and time with friends. Getting organized can make all the difference in the world.

healthy food can help your teen improve their academic performance

6. Healthy Food and Hydration Can Reduce Stress Levels

Diet and hydration significantly affect cognitive function, mood, and energy levels. A shocking study by the Cornell Medical Center found that around 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated.

Encourage your teen to drink plenty of water throughout the day and make healthy food choices. Staying hydrated can help them stay focused and improve their overall well-being.

7. Ask for Help and Learn how to Deal with School Stress and Anxiety

Stress leads many teens to go inward instead of asking for help. In the long run, this only makes their problems worse.

Remind your teen that they are not alone and that many other teens struggle with academics. Provide a space for them to talk about their concerns or go with them to seek help from a trusted adult. Encourage your teen to ask questions, seek clarification on assignments, and seek support from a teacher or academic coach.

it is important to engage with your teen's emotions

8. Engage with Your Emotions

Teens often push away their negative emotions about school. Pushing away their feelings is ineffective and can lead to a build-up of stress. Encourage your teen to acknowledge and manage their emotions healthily, such as journaling or talking to you or a counselor.

You can model this behavior by talking to your teen openly and honestly about what stresses you out and how you process your emotions. Demonstrating your vulnerability will create a space that encourages your teen to do the same.

9. Save Some Time For Yourself

Encourage your teen to set aside time for themselves each day to relax and do something they enjoy. A small amount of “me time” can go a long way in helping your teen regulate their stress levels and stay on top of their academics.

working with an academic coach can be the solution

10. Work with An Academic Coach to Stop being Stressed From School

If your teenager struggles with stress and academic performance, consider working with an academic coach. An academic coach can help your teen create a personalized plan to manage stress, improve their academic performance, and implement the tips on this list.

They can also provide support and guidance in navigating high school’s academic and social pressures. Let’s chat if this is the support your teen needs. I’m an academic coach with over ten years of experience helping students reach their academic potential. I can help your teen manage their stress and develop a more positive association with school.

Wrap Up

Stress is a normal part of school and life, but it shouldn’t be debilitating. Finding healthy ways to manage it is crucial, so it doesn’t negatively impact your teenager’s well-being and academic performance. Try implementing these tips to help your teen relieve stress and reach their academic potential.

About the Author: John Hyde

I am an educational coach specializing in teaching students academic fundamentals and a growth mindset.

If you’d like to discuss how I can help your teen be more motivated, foster good habits, and improve academic organization/performance, Book a Complimentary Discovery Call Here.

April 14, 2023Secret School Tips For Parents

As parents, you want your children to excel in school and achieve …

April 7, 2023Online Success Coach: Unlocking Your Teen’s Potential

As a parent, you want your teen to succeed academically and in …

March 31, 2023School Is Setting Your Child Up For Failure

Schools don't care about students and are setting your child up for …

March 24, 202310 Bad Study Habits You Need to Break Immediately

In my experience as a classroom teacher and an academic coach, one …

Author Spotlight

Hi I’m John, author of this blog, academic coach, and founder of AE Academy.

I help teens reach their academic potential by empowering them with academic fundamentals, a growth mindset, and critical thinking.

If your teen is struggling to reach their academic potential, or isn’t learning the skills they need to succeed in school, we should connect.

It’s on me – Book Your Free Call Here

Is an Academic Mentor the Secret to Motivating your Teen?

Posted on December 23, 2022December 23, 2022 by John Hyde in Setting Goals for School

an academic mentor can be the key to success

“Motivation is the single most important factor in any sort of success.”

Edmund Hillary

Edmund Hillary was the first man to successfully reach the summit of Mount Everest, so he clearly knew a thing or two about motivation. Unfortunately, many teens struggle to motivate themselves to complete their responsibilities at school and at home. Teenagers are often more interested in video games, social media, and hanging out with their friends.

A lack of motivation can be particularly frustrating when you can see how much potential your teen has, but they seem uninterested in maximizing it.

If this sounds like your teen, you are not alone. Many parents struggle with their teen’s apathy and lack of motivation.

It may seem like an impossible task, but with the right support, you help your teen find their intrinsic motivation.

Mentorship can be the key to unlocking your teen’s motivation and propelling them towards their potential. Keep reading to find out what academic mentorship is and how it can help your teen unlock their potential.

Why Your Teen Needs an Academic Mentor

Teens often struggle with motivation because they feel like they do not have control of their circumstances. Developmentally, they are at an age where they are seeking more autonomy and independence. Unfortunately, this is often hard to come by because school provides them with few opportunities for autonomy.

In an effort to find a sense of independence and autonomy, many teens rebel and refuse to do what they are told. Rebellion gives them a sense of control, although not necessarily a sense of happiness or achievement.

This can commonly lead to academic struggles and tension between teens and their parents.

The longer this pattern continues, the harder it will be for a teen to find intrinsic motivation. The key to motivating a teen is often stepping back and giving them space to dictate their own path. Mentors can facilitate a teen’s exploration and provide guidance as a teen begins to express their independence and seek their own solutions.

an academic mentor can help in a variety of ways

What does an Academic Mentor Do?

Academic mentors, also called academic coaches, act as role models for students. The mentor/coach provides academic advice, resources, and a forum to discuss problems and brainstorm solutions. In this article, I will use mentor and coach interchangeably.

Unlike other types of academic support (i.e. tutoring), mentorship meets the full needs of a mentee. A mentor will discuss subject-specific as well as social-emotional challenges related to a student’s academics.

The goal of mentor-mentee pairing is to help a student find their intrinsic motivation and create a diverse toolbox of skills they can use to achieve success now and in the future.

In order to accomplish this goal, mentors and coaches prioritize question asking and the goals of their mentees. This gives their mentors a sense of agency and independence, which is essential for the success of a mentor-mentee pairing. Over time, this builds trust and helps the mentee develop intrinsic motivation and problem-solving skills.

As mentee continues to grow, a coach can support them on this journey by teaching them the skills they need to accomplish their goals. These skills include organization, note-taking, writing, and other academic fundamentals.

Finally, mentorship is a two-way street. A good mentor and mentee pairing will include shared interests and open discussion beyond just academics. Having a connection beyond school-related subjects helps build a healthy relationship and trust between the mentor and the mentee. This relationship is necessary for the mentee to listen to and accept the advice provided by the mentor.

How can Mentorship Benefit your Teen?

An academic mentor can be the secret to unlocking your teen’s motivation. Due to the emphasis mentors place on whole-child learning, teens are often more receptive to mentors than traditional forms of academic support.

By connecting with and empathizing with your teen, an academic coach can help your teen identify what motivates them by putting the power in the hands of the teen. This includes their goals, desires, and solutions.

Instead of going down a predetermined path, mentors focus on asking questions and understanding your teen’s circumstances. The emphasis that academic coaches place on question-asking is one of the primary advantages that they have over other forms of academic support. The simple act of asking instead of telling can make all the difference in the world.

Additionally, mentorship offers an opportunity for a start fresh. Many of the adults in a teen’s life are associated with family or school. These connections may make a teen unwilling to open up and receive advice, especially if the teen has had negative experiences with academics in the past. Since a mentor does not have these connections, a teen and a mentor are starting with a blank slate, without any prior negative associations.

The fresh start that a coach provides allows for more open and honest discussions and helps create an environment where your teen is more likely to listen and accept feedback.

Furthermore, a mentor can model and troubleshoot habits like time management, note-taking, reading, active listening, and writing that your teen needs to succeed now and in the future. An academic coach can also empower your teen to be an independent learner by encouraging ownership and self-advocacy.

By fostering your teen’s ownership over their academics, a mentor can prepare your teen for sustained success well into the future.

How Academic Mentorship can Benefit Parents

Mentorship has benefits for parents as well as teens. Teens that struggle with their academics and lack motivation often have strained relationships with their parents. This is often the result of the parents’ well-intentioned efforts to motivate their children.

Over time, this can strain the relationship between parents and child, and make the home a battleground.

A mentor gives parents the opportunity to take a step back. Instead of focusing on their child’s academics, they can focus on building a positive relationship with their teen instead. The mentor can take on the role of monitoring the teen’s academics and providing accountability, while keeping the parents in the loop.

Additionally, an academic coach can work with parents to create an environment at home that will help facilitate academic growth and foster a teen’s motivation.

The Next Step

If you think a mentor might be the support your teen needs to unlock their motivation and potential, let’s talk.

I am an academic coach and mentor that has worked with hundreds of students to help them build positive habits and achieve academic success.

Every student has their specific challenges. Let’s have a discussion about how we can unleash your teen’s intrinsic motivation – book your free discovery call here.

About the Author: John Hyde

I am an educational coach specializing in teaching students academic fundamentals and a growth mindset.

If you’d like to discuss how I can help your teen be more motivated, foster good habits, and improve academic organization/performance, Book a Complimentary Discovery Call Here.

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Hi I’m John, author of this blog, academic coach, and founder of AE Academy.

I help teens reach their academic potential by empowering them with academic fundamentals, a growth mindset, and critical thinking.

If your teen is struggling to reach their academic potential, or isn’t learning the skills they need to succeed in school, we should connect.

It’s on me – Book Your Free Call Here

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Letting Your Teenager Fail in School: Six Tips To Help Them Learn From Their Mistakes

Posted on December 13, 2022December 23, 2022 by John Hyde in Setting Goals for School

Are you considering letting your teenager fail in school?

You have tried everything, rewards, private tutors, parent-teacher conferences, meetings with the administration, rewards, consequences, and everything in between. Without your teen’s buy-in, you have become increasingly responsible for their academics. You are even considering letting your teenager fail in school.

I understand your desire to help your teenager avoid failure in school. As an educational coach who has worked with hundreds of students, I’ve witnessed the marathon parents have to run to keep up with their children. I have tremendous empathy for the challenges that you face. Your concerns about their future are authentic and valid. You want your son or daughter to have the opportunity to go to a good university, earn scholarships, and get a good job.

Avoiding failure is counterproductive to these goals.

Letting your teenager fail in school is a step in the right direction. Teenagers thirst for independence and autonomy. Constantly being redirected and avoiding the consequences of their actions can lead to apathy and indifference toward their academics. It can also have serious long-term consequences.

Experiencing the consequences of their actions will teach your teen many important lessons about life and will help prepare them for a successful future.

Letting your teenager fail does not mean you should leave them without support. I’ve developed a list of six tips to help you and your teenager navigate failure. These tips embrace a hands-off approach while giving your teen the support and guidance they need to succeed. The balance of independence and indirect support is a combination that helps many teens find their footing, motivate themselves, and reach their potential in school.

The Long-term Benefits of Letting Your Teenager Fail in School

It can be tempting to help your teenager avoid failure, but this has negative consequences in the long run. Your teen will learn valuable lessons by experiencing and learning from failure.

Letting your teenager fail in school has long term benefits

Letting Your Teenager Fail in School Prepares Them for the Future

It might be tempting to rescue your teenager from an assignment they left at home or a test they haven’t studied for.

Is it more important that your child get a good grade now or be an independent, motivated adult?

While a good grade is always nice, what’s more important in the long run is that your child learns how to deal with challenges and setbacks. If you constantly remind your teenager to study for a test or bring their forgotten homework, they will never know how to do it independently.

Your teenager will face many obstacles in the future. Learning how to deal with failure will set them up for later success.

Learning from failure and mistakes is a short-term loss but a long-term gain. It can be helpful to remind yourself of your long-term objectives when you are tempted to rescue your teenager.

Let your Teenager Get Comfortable being Uncomfortable

As a parent, you know exactly how uncomfortable life can be. When they are older, teenagers face awkward conversations with their boss, upsetting their partner, or dealing with a demanding customer.

Your teenager must get comfortable being uncomfortable now. If you always step in to save them, they will never learn how to cope with difficult situations.

Letting your teenager fail in school is one way to help them get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Your teenager will not always have you there to save them.

Avoiding Failure In School Causes Entitlement

Protecting your teen from failure and discomfort can teach them that they shouldn’t ever experience negative or bad feelings. Learning to avoid these types of emotions can lead to a sense of entitlement.

A sense of entitlement will teach teenagers that they are not responsible for their actions. A sense of entitlement can harm their academic, personal, and professional life.

It is important to remember that your teenager is not entitled to a good grade. They are responsible for their actions and should be prepared to face the consequences of their actions. In the end, your teenager can learn to overcome failure through acceptance, responsibility, and action.

Learning from Failure Teaches a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is one of the most important things someone can learn. It is the belief that they can continue to grow and surpass their current ability level through hard work, effort, advice, and learning from their mistakes.

A growth mindset will empower your teenager to make the most of their natural abilities, reach their potential, and motivate them to do the necessary work. Achieving this mindset is impossible without accepting your mistakes and learning from them.

Six Tips to Help Your Teen Navigate Failing in School

Watching your teenager fail is not easy for any parent. However, letting your teenager face the consequence of their actions doesn’t mean you have to walk away entirely. These tips can help you support your teenager while they learn from their mistakes.

1. Embrace a Question-Based Approach While Letting Your Teenager Fail In School

One of the best ways to support your teenager as they begin to take responsibility for their mistakes is to embrace question-asking. Question asking is far more effective than being prescriptive.

Asking questions demonstrates interest in your teenager’s perspective and opinion. It can also teach them that they hold the answers and solutions to the problems that they are facing.

For example, asking the following questions after your teenager makes a mistake can support their growth tremendously:

What went wrong?
How can you improve in the future?
What did you learn from this experience?

Don’t expect a specific answer when you ask this type of question. Teenagers can tell when they are fishing for a particular answer. If your teen gives a solution you don’t like, that is ok.

An answer they are forced to give is the “illusion” of a win. It might sound good, but it doesn’t mean anything.

Finally, if you have some relevant advice you would like to give, ask your teenager if they would like to hear it. Allow them to turn down your offer. You will be surprised how differently they respond to your advice when you ask for their consent first.

Setting boundaries is an important part of letting your teenager fail in school.

2. Let your Teenager Set up Clear Expectations and Boundaries

As much as teens seek independence and autonomy, they also want boundaries and expectations. Working with your teen to set these can give them a sense of ownership over their actions and behavior.

To set clear expectations, meet your teen first and ask for their opinion. The following questions can be helpful:

What are reasonable academic/behavioral expectations?
What do they need to do to meet those expectations?
What is the reward for reaching the expectations, and what is the consequence for not achieving them?

If they are unsure, offer some suggestions. However, don’t make the mistake of offering too many suggestions.

These expectations and boundaries must be realistic and achievable. For example, if your teenager is failing a class, it might be unrealistic to expect them to get an A.

It is also essential that these expectations and boundaries are clear. Vague expectations only lead to frustration on your part and your teenager’s.

3. Focus on A Specific Problem While Letting Your Teenager Fail In School

As a parent, it can be easy to see all the challenges facing your teenager. You might be worried about their college opportunities or if they can show up to their job on time. These concerns can result in nagging and other unhelpful behaviors that will not motivate your teenager.

Instead of worrying about a dozen different things, take some time and identify the areas you want to help your teenager the most. These areas of focus might be:

turning in homework on time
completing responsibilities at home
writing down assignments in their agenda

Once you have identified the problem(s) you want to focus on, prioritize it and let the other concerns slide. You can get to those in the future. Presenting a consistent and focused message to your teenager will help them stay on track without overwhelming them.

A schedule can help your teen learn from failing in school.

4. Establish a Routine with your Teenager

Establishing a routine with your teenager is one of the best ways that you can help them succeed while allowing them to take responsibility for their actions. Like setting boundaries or expectations, this should be a collaborative effort.

Start by sitting down with your teenager and asking them what a typical day looks like for them.

Then, ask them to identify any time blocks that could be used more effectively. Finally, ask them what they need to do to meet their academic/behavioral expectations.

Use the answers to these questions to help your teenager establish a routine. Be sure to include extracurricular responsibilities and family events.

The next step is helping your teenager stick to the routine by holding them accountable.

You can do this by checking in with them at regular intervals. You can also model this behavior by working at the same time they are. For example, if they decide to do homework from 5:00-7:00 pm every night, bring your work, sit in the same room, and work alongside your teenager.

Demonstrating to your teen that you also follow a routine is an excellent way to get them to buy into the concept without forcing them to do it.

As your teenager sees success following this routine, the following steps are asking them if they would like to make any adjustments or tweak to their schedule. Eventually, you will not need to hold them accountable, and they will follow the schedule because they see its value.

5. Hire an Academic Coach for Your Teenager

Giving your teen the space to fail and learn from their mistakes can be stressful for both you and your teen. Hiring an academic coach is an excellent move if you want to facilitate this process and make it easier for you and your teen.

An academic coach can help your teen develop the skills and habits they need to succeed in school. A coach can also give your teenager accountability and support from a 3rd party.

Support from a third party can be an invaluable resource for your teen as they work to improve their grades and take responsibility for their academic future.

Additionally, an academic coach can help you and your efforts to create a home environment that supports your teenager as they make mistakes and learn from them.

You and your teenager don’t have to go through this process alone. An academic coach can be the exact kind of support needed for all parties involved.

Praise is an important part of letting your teenager fail in school.

6. Succeed or Fail in School: Praise the Effort Rather Than the Outcome

Praising effort is one of the most important steps you can take to support your teen as they learn to grow from their mistakes. Your teenager is going to make mistakes. It is inevitable. What matters is how they handle these failures.

Praising your teen’s effort rather than the outcome will help them see that you value their hard work and determination. It will also help them understand that you are not just focused on the result.

Your teenager cannot guarantee success. They cannot ensure they will get an A on a test or achieve a certain GPA. They might become deflated and discouraged if they fail to meet these goals.

However, if you praise their effort and hard work, your teen will understand that even though they didn’t reach their goal, they were still successful. They can use this critical lesson in other areas of their life, such as in their future career.

Moving Forward

Letting your teenager fail and take responsibility for their actions is a huge step. Giving your teenager the independence and autonomy to own their actions can teach them many valuable lessons. The tips I’ve outlined in this article can help you support your teen as they undertake this journey.

If you want additional support for you and your teen, let’s talk. I am an academic coach that has helped hundreds of students reach their potential.

Every child is different, so let’s discuss how we can work together to get your child back on track – schedule your free consultation.

About the Author: John Hyde

I am an educational coach specializing in teaching students academic fundamentals and a growth mindset.

If you’d like to discuss how I can help your teen be more motivated, foster good habits, and improve academic organization/performance, Book a Complimentary Discovery Call Here.

April 14, 2023Secret School Tips For Parents

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March 31, 2023School Is Setting Your Child Up For Failure

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Author Spotlight

Hi I’m John, author of this blog, academic coach, and founder of AE Academy.

I help teens reach their academic potential by empowering them with academic fundamentals, a growth mindset, and critical thinking.

If your teen is struggling to reach their academic potential, or isn’t learning the skills they need to succeed in school, we should connect.

It’s on me – Book Your Free Call Here

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Academic Pressure And Mental Health: 9 Tips to Help Your Teen

Posted on December 2, 2022December 2, 2022 by John Hyde in Setting Goals for School

It is hard to mange academic pressure and mental health

Almost 75% of high school students self-reported feeling negative about school and struggling with academic pressure and mental health.

Let that sink in for a moment.

These are the alarming findings of a recent study by Yale University that polled almost 22,000 current US high school students.

Ignoring this problem can have serious repercussions. Over time, teenagers can develop anxiety and depression, lose their passion for learning, and fail to reach their academic potential.

As an academic coach, I’ve seen the long-term consequences of academic pressure on students. If it is not addressed, it can create bad habits at best and become debilitating at worst.

In an overwhelmed school system, supporting the mental health of teenagers largely falls on the shoulders of the parents. To help you support your teenagers in these difficult times, I’ve created a list of nine tips you can use to help your teenager manage academic pressure and mental health.

Nine Tips for Managing Academic Pressure and Mental Health

I encourage you to implement these tips at your discretion. You know your teen better than anyone.

1. Address Your Mental Health to Help your Teen

Throughout my experience as an academic coach, tutor, and classroom teacher, I have observed that the most common source of academic pressure comes from parents. Fortunately, it is also the source that you have the most control over.

Do you have stress about your teen’s academic future? If so, you could pass this on to them. Even if the pressure is not explicit, your teen can pick it up in your behavior and attitude.

Academic pressure from parents almost always comes from a good place; you want the best for your teen. However, this desire can become overwhelming and have a negative impact.

I recommend taking the following steps:

Take some time to consider if you have stress and anxiety about your teen’s academic performance.
If you believe your stress is excessive, seeing a therapist can help you manage these feelings. I also recommend being transparent. Let your teen know how you are feeling, and, most importantly, ask them how it impacts them.

If you believe your teen is not reaching their academic potential, I recommend working together to develop an actionable plan.

Every parent wants their teen to succeed academically. However, putting excessive pressure on them is counterproductive. There are many effective ways to motivate your teen.

2. Give Praise and Affirmations to Decrease Academic Pressure

One of the best ways to alleviate academic pressure and improve your teen’s mental health is to give positive praise and affirmations. Studies have shown that you should give praise at a ratio of 5:1. In other words, you should give five times more praise than criticism.

Unfortunately, in practice, this ratio often exists in the opposite direction, and teens receive far more negative reinforcement than positive affirmations. An emphasis on the negative can be the driving force behind negative feelings about school, even if your teen is performing well.

The best way to address this problem is to focus on what your teen is doing well. Additionally, pick and choose your battles when it comes to criticism. Remember, we all make many mistakes on our way to adulthood.

When giving praise, it is essential to be genuine and specific. The following are some examples of what you can say:

I’m so proud of the effort you’ve been putting into your schoolwork
You must have studied hard for that test because your grades have improved
You’re doing a great job of managing your time

Notice that all three examples are related to behavior rather than the outcome (i.e., grades). Your teen has far more control over their behavior. Emphasizing the behavior can help your teen sustain their academic performance while minimizing the academic pressure they feel.

By affirming your teen’s efforts, you are letting them know that you see and appreciate their hard work. This type of positive reinforcement can be extremely helpful in alleviating academic pressure and improving mental health.

A reward system and help your teen navigate academic pressure and mental health

3. Create a Reward System

Teens often face an abundance of academic pressure because of the negative connotations they develop with school. If your teen perceives school negatively, ambition can turn into anxiety.

A great way to change this perspective is to develop a reward system. A reward system will demonstrate the value of your teen’s hard work and give them something positive to focus on. In an ideal world, grades would be enough, but in reality, grades hold little social or economic value in the eyes of teens.

The key to creating an effective reward system is ensuring the rewards are attainable and focused on the desired behavior instead of the outcome.

It is also essential to avoid using rewards as a way to bribe or manipulate your teen into doing something. Your teen should agree to any reward. Getting their input will make the reward system far more effective.

I also recommend that the reward system be based on behavior rather than the outcome. Outcomes are hard to control, but establishing rewards for studying every day, or turning in homework on time, are far more likely to create positive habits and reduce stress.

If you want to set up a reward system with your teen, I encourage you to have a conversation with them. Let them know that you want to reward them for their hard work academically. Collaborate with them and select behaviors and rewards agreeable to both of you.

4. Encourage Self-Care and Coping Skills To Manage Academic Pressure and Mental health

No matter how positive, caring, and compassionate you are, your teen will still face academic pressure. Since they cannot avoid it, encouraging them to find ways of coping and managing stress are excellent ways to reduce the negative impact of academic pressure on their mental health.

Since self-care is not commonly discussed at school, this is another conversation I recommend you have with your teenager. Talk to your teen about the importance of managing stress and taking care of yourself. Ask them questions about what makes them feel good and what you can do to support them.

If your teen is at a loss or would like suggestions, many different coping skills and self-care activities can help them. The following are some examples of what you can encourage:

Exercise
Yoga
Meditation
Journaling
Spending time outside
Spending time with friends
Creating art

Your teen may need to experiment with different coping mechanisms until they find the one that works best. Once they have identified the winner, I recommend incorporating it into their schedule.

a schedule and to-do list are essential for dealing with academic pressure

5. Create a Schedule With To-do Lists

Another great way to help your teen manage academic pressure and mental health is to help them get organized.

Teens often feel overwhelmed by their academics. The strategies they used in middle school may no longer be effective, so they cannot juggle their responsibilities. Many teenagers resort to working harder, which is effective to a certain point but can lead to burnout and anxiety in the long run.

Instead of working harder, show your teen how to work smarter.

One of the best ways to help your teen work efficiently is to create a schedule and a to-do list. There are many ways to make a schedule, but the key is finding what works best for your teen. I recommend using a whiteboard or a planner so they can easily visualize their commitments. Keeping a daily agenda is also a helpful tool.

Your teen may scoff at these old-school methods. Using their phone or an app can also be effective. What matters is that your teen picks a system and sticks with it.

When creating a schedule, I recommend that your teen blocks off time for homework, chores, extra-curricular activities, and self-care. Doing so will ensure that your teen has enough time to complete everything. If you notice that their schedule is too full to accommodate everything, this could be a sign that they are over-committed.

6. Encourage Self-advocacy To Manage Academic Pressure in High School

Developmentally, teens are at a stage where they want to demonstrate their independence. Additionally, many teens perceive that asking for help means they are dumb or don’t know what to do.

As a result, teens put a lot of pressure on themselves to know the correct answer and accomplish things independently without assistance. These individualistic attitudes are the personification of academic stress.

Encouraging your teen to advocate for themselves is an essential step in decreasing the academic pressure they face and also an important step in maintaining their mental health. Asking for help and letting others know you need assistance is one of the best ways to avoid the severe consequences of poor mental health.

Let your teen know that you are there to support them and that they can ask you questions and seek advice. Your teen may balk at this because you are, after all, their parents. You can also encourage them to seek help from other trusted family members, teachers, and mentors.

It may also be helpful to ask your teen questions about their performance in school. Your teen may be overwhelmed and not know where to go for help. This uncertainty is widespread among teens who excelled in middle school but find high school more challenging.

Talking with your teen can help them manage their mental health

7. Be Transparent About The Academic Pressure and Mental Health Challenges You Faced

One of the most significant sources of academic pressure and poor mental health among teenagers is constantly comparing themselves to the adults around them. They see their parents, teachers, and family friends, who are far more polished and put together than they are.

The comparison teens make between themselves and adults is often the source of unruly and overconfident teenage behavior. Teens feel the need to compensate.

This disconnection can make teens uncomfortable, lack confidence, and create anxiety. The best way to deal with this is to address it directly. Let your teen know about the mistakes you made in the past and the mistakes that you make now.

Being transparent about your successes and failures will help your teen feel more connected to you and demonstrate that it is okay to make mistakes.

Additionally, being open with your teenager about your academic journey can help them understand that there is more than one way to achieve success. You can also talk about how you coped with academic pressure and the techniques you used to manage it.

Transparency and honesty will help your teen understand that they are not alone in feeling the pressures of academic life.

8. Be the Change You Wish To See

As you encourage your teen to implement these tips, it may be challenging for them. They may struggle to understand the importance of these tips if they don’t see the adults around them practicing them.

If you think your teenager would benefit from one or more of these tips, one of the best ways to support them is by modeling it.

For example, if you want your teen to be more organized, create a schedule for yourself and make to-do lists. If you want your teen to exercise more, make time for it in your schedule.

Modeling these behaviors can help bring you closer to your teen, improve your relationship with them, and positively benefit your mental health.

You are your teen’s most significant role model, even if they are a typically flippant teenager. The example that you set can propel them forward.

9. Work With an Academic Coach

Helping your teen manage academic pressure and mental health can be a tremendous challenge.

A great way to allow your teen to feel independent while still giving them the support they need to handle their academics is to hire an academic coach.

An academic coach can help your teen develop healthy study habits, manage their time effectively, reduce stress levels, and implement the tips in this article. Additionally, since an academic coach is not connected to family or school, teens are more likely to listen and heed their advice.

Working with an academic coach is an investment in your teen’s future and can help them succeed academically and improve their mental health.

If you are interested in finding an academic coach for your teen, let’s chat. I’ve helped hundreds of teenagers manage academic pressure, work smarter, not harder, and maintain their mental health. Your teen could be next.

About the Author: John Hyde

I am an educational coach specializing in teaching students academic fundamentals and a growth mindset.

If you’d like to discuss how I can help your teen be more motivated, foster good habits, and improve academic organization/performance, Book a Complimentary Discovery Call Here.

April 14, 2023Secret School Tips For Parents

As parents, you want your children to excel in school and achieve …

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As a parent, you want your teen to succeed academically and in …

March 31, 2023School Is Setting Your Child Up For Failure

Schools don't care about students and are setting your child up for …

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In my experience as a classroom teacher and an academic coach, one …

Author Spotlight

Hi I’m John, author of this blog, academic coach, and founder of AE Academy.

I help teens reach their academic potential by empowering them with academic fundamentals, a growth mindset, and critical thinking.

If your teen is struggling to reach their academic potential, or isn’t learning the skills they need to succeed in school, we should connect.

It’s on me – Book Your Free Call Here

The Importance of Mentorship: 8 Benefits for Teens

Posted on November 8, 2022December 2, 2022 by John Hyde in Setting Goals for School

When I first met Kai. She was a quiet and shy 15-year-old. She was so nervous that she would barely make eye contact with me.

When she graduated from high school three years later, she was a confident young woman. She walked with her head held high, spoke her mind freely, and secured a scholarship to attend a selective university in Virginia.

Kai’s growth demonstrates the importance of mentorship and the profound impact it can have on teens.

If you are considering finding a mentor for your teen, you are in the right place. This article defines mentorship, outlines the various benefits for teenagers, and identifies where you can find a mentor to help your teen reach their academic potential.

What is the Role of a Mentor?

Mentorship is a professional relationship between a more experienced individual (the mentor) who helps a less experienced person (the mentee) to learn academic fundamentals, develop social-emotional skills, and improve self-confidence.

Influential mentors can accomplish this while maintaining an inviting and supportive relationship. Mentors have the best interest of their mentees in mind and craft their meetings and interactions based on the mentee’s needs.

In the case of teenagers, a mentor is an adult who provides one-on-one support to empower the teen and help them find their footing as the teen approaches adulthood.

The Importance of Mentorship: Eight Benefits

Studies have shown the importance of mentorship for teenagers. It improves academic performance, decreases drug and alcohol use, and helps teens develop social-emotional skills. I’ve highlighted some of the essential benefits of mentorship below.

The importance of mentorship is realized through trust

1. Mentorship Provides a Connection Outside of Parents or School With a Trusted Adult

Teenagers are at a stage developmentally where they are thirsting for independence. Unfortunately, they often lack the experience needed to make the best decisions. The desire for independence but the lack of knowledge can be a complex combination to navigate for parents.

Teenagers often begin to rebel against authority figures because they desire to make their own decisions. A mentor provides teenagers with a supportive adult relationship distinct from their relationships with their parents and teachers.

A teenager can build a relationship with a mentor that allows the teenager to feel a sense of independence but still have a source of advice, support, and encouragement. That is not to say that a mentor replaces parents or teachers. Rather, a mentor provides guidance that parents and teachers cannot give and supports the holistic education of a teenager.

2. A Teen Can Learn the Importance of Social-emotional Skills, Self-esteem, and Self-confidence From Mentorship

Mentorship can help improve a teenager’s self-confidence and social-emotional skills. Regular interactions with a mentor teach teenagers how to communicate effectively, set boundaries, and manage emotions.

Teenagers may feel uncomfortable discussing these topics with other adults because of their desire to be independent and the potential negative consequences they might face socially.

Since a mentor’s primary objective is to support the mentee, a mentor can act as a mentee’s cheerleader, boosting the mentee’s self-confidence and self-esteem.

Growth in these three areas is essential for success in the short and long run and can help a teen reach their academic potential and help the mentee succeed socially and in life.

3. Mentorship Provides Feedback in a Supportive Environment

One of the most significant benefits that a mentor can provide is feedback in a positive environment. Unfortunately, society tends to focus on the negatives rather than the positives. This focus can be debilitating for many young people.

The constant negative feedback can make growth and improvement feel pointless. A mentor can help balance out society’s focus on the negative.

A mentor is invested in the mentee’s success and can provide feedback that focuses on their strengths and areas of growth. This more balanced approach can help teenagers identify their strengths and weaknesses.

A mentor gives feedback in a supportive environment, which helps teenagers feel motivated to improve rather than discouraged. Over time, this can greatly impact a teenager’s academic and professional success.

4. Teens Can Learn the Importance of Different Perspectives

Since mentors lack a connection to a mentee’s home, school, or social life, they can offer a different perspective and new information. A mentor can help teenagers see the world in different ways and provide guidance on how to navigate difficult situations.

A new perspective can be constructive for teenagers struggling with personal or academic problems. Teenagers may feel trapped in a loop because they hear the same advice and are surrounded by the same people. The lack of new information can make it hard to escape their current patterns of behavior.

A mentor can provide an outside perspective and a new way of looking at a challenge. This can be the difference between staying stuck in a cycle and breaking free.

The importance of mentorship is demonstrated through teens setting and attaining goals.

5. Mentorship Can Help Your Teen Set and Attain Goals

Setting goals is one of the most critical steps in growing as a student and person. Despite its importance, many teens do not receive direct instruction on how to set and achieve goals successfully.

A teenager may feel uncomfortable conversing with peers, parents, and teachers because it requires vulnerability and openness. Many teens struggle to exhibit these traits within their inner circle because they desire independence.

Mentors can help teenagers set and achieve goals and provide advice on overcoming obstacles and creating a plan for success. The unique relationship between a mentor and a mentee makes conversations about goal setting non-threatening.

6. Mentorship Provides Accountability

One of the biggest challenges that teenagers face is accountability. Due to their desire for independence, accountability that comes from parents or teachers can often result in conflict and arguments.

Conflict is not an appealing outcome, but a complete lack of accountability is not ideal either. Despite their desire for independence, teens often need someone to help them stay on track. A mentor can provide this accountability by meeting regularly with the teen and checking in on their progress.

A mentor can avoid the conflicts commonly associated with providing accountability because of the trust a teenager has built with their mentor and the mentor’s position outside of a teen’s social circle.

A mentor’s accountability can be crucial in helping teenagers succeed in school, work, and life.

Encouragement is key to the importance of mentorship for teens

7. Mentors Give Encouragement

Everyone needs encouragement, and this is particularly true for teenagers and young adults. They face a tremendous amount of pressure because everywhere they look, things look perfect.

Instagram and social media are filled with photoshopped and edited pictures and videos. Plus, the adults in their life are polished products with years of experience. The pressure from the effortless perfection around them can be debilitating.

A mentor can provide a sympathetic perspective for a teenager and offer encouragement to persevere while facing these challenges. This encouragement can be the difference between giving up and striving.

8. A Mentor Can Help Your Teen Develop a Better Attitude About School

Many teenagers have a bad attitude about school and don’t see the point in traditional education. Furthermore, few are excited to meet the expectation that they do their homework.

A mentor can empathize with a mentee’s perspective and help them find what they enjoy about school. Finding something to enjoy at school is essential for academic success, yet many teens are expected to do well in school without any personal connection.

Mentors can help teenagers see the value of education and how it can benefit their future. This positive attitude can lead to improved grades and overall success in school.

Now that You know the importance of Mentorship, How Do You Find a Mentor?

There are several ways you can find a mentor for your teen. You can start by asking family and friends if they know anyone interested in mentoring your teen.

Many volunteer organizations provide mentorship for teens. I highly recommend Minds Matter. I met Kai through this volunteer organization.

If you want something more serious and curated to the specific needs of your teenager, I recommend reaching out to an educational or academic coach. An academic coach has the professional background and experience to meet your teen’s individual needs and help them maximize their talents and reach their academic potential.

If you believe in the importance of mentorship and want your teen to reap the benefits, let’s talk. I have worked with hundreds of students to reach their academic potential, and your teenager could be next.

Wrap Up

As you can see, the importance of mentorship in a teenager’s development cannot be understated. A mentor can provide a teenager’s support, encouragement, and accountability to succeed. If you are interested in finding a mentor for your teen, many resources are available to help you.

I hope this article was helpful. If you have any questions or want to learn more about how an academic coach can mentor your child, schedule a free consultation.

About the Author: John Hyde

I am an educational coach specializing in teaching students academic fundamentals and a growth mindset.

If you’d like to discuss how I can help your teen be more motivated, foster good habits, and improve academic organization/performance, Book a Complimentary Discovery Call Here.

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Hi, I’m John, the author of this blog, academic coach, and founder of AE Academy.

I help teens reach their academic potential by empowering them with academic fundamentals, a growth mindset, and critical thinking.

If your teen is struggling to reach their academic potential or isn’t learning the skills they need to succeed in school, we should connect.

It’s on me – Book Your Free Call Here

14 Tips for Motivating Teens

Posted on September 20, 2022November 8, 2022 by John Hyde in Setting Goals for School

Finding an effective method for motivating teens can make you want to pull your hair out.

Take a deep breath.

You are not alone.

Many parents struggle to motivate their teens.

It’s not a lost battle.

You want your teenager to become a self-motivated, hard-working adult, and when they fail to display these characteristics, it is easy to become bossy and prescriptive.

You may think that your teen is completely unmotivated and that they would fall apart without your reminders.

However, the chances are that your teen is more motivated than it may seem. They are probably motivated to hang out with friends, play sports or video games, or watch Netflix.

The secret to motivating teens is teaching them to apply their desires more productively to unlock their intrinsic motivation and ambition.

Your reminders and micromanaging might help them do well on a test, but what happens when they leave the house without intrinsic motivation?

Motivating teens is possible.

Use the following tips to unlock your teen’s ambition and intrinsic motivation…

14 Tips for Motivating Teens Without Micromanagement or Nagging

1. Focus on actions, not words, when motivating teens

Many teenagers have become masters at giving the “right” answer instead of the honest one. They know what you want to hear and say it, but their actions don’t match their words.

To gauge your teen’s behavior, pay attention to what they do instead of what they say.

It can be easy to become distracted by the answers your teenager gives. This can allow bad habits to develop.

If your teen’s words and actions do not align, you can draw attention to this and help them find a path forward.

Focusing on actions instead of words will give you a clearer understanding of your teen’s behavior and motivation. It will allow you to point out consistencies and emphasize their actions.

Teaching your teen the importance of their actions is an important first step in motivating them.

2. Motivating Teens With Positive Feedback and Encouragement

It is essential to give your teenager positive feedback when displaying the desired behavior.

You might think, “Well, of course, I should do that.”

However, it can be easy to get caught up in day-to-day life and take your teenager’s good behavior for granted.

Make an effort to give your teenager positive feedback every day. You can do this by:

Compliment them when they’ve done something well
Say “thank you” when they help out around the house
Praise them in front of other family members and friends

It is also essential to avoid giving criticism that is vague or nonspecific. For example, instead of saying, “You’re lazy,” try. “I noticed that you didn’t take the trash out this morning. Can you please do that before lunch?”

This type of specific feedback is more likely to result in the desired behavior change.

Finally, avoid comparing them to their siblings, peers, or yourself. These comparisons are not motivating and may harm your teen’s self-esteem.

3. Give Your Teen Independence

The teenage years are exciting. You are becoming your own person, developing an identity, and finding your way in the world.

Teenagers have a strong desire for independence which is a natural part of their development as human beings.

Unfortunately, most teenagers are not given much autonomy. Their behavior and schedule are strictly regulated at home and school.

The desire for independence and a lack of control can cause teenagers to become apathetic, lack motivation, and feel powerless.

I am not advocating for your teenager to have free reign. They are not adults yet. However, teenagers do need more independence and autonomy. Giving your teen more space to be themselves and to make their own decisions in one of the best methods for motivating teens.

4. Emphasize the Journey, Not the Outcome, To Increase Motivation

Getting caught up in your teen’s grades or extracurricular performance can be easy. However, focusing on the outcome is fool’s gold.

Would you rather your teenager be a hard worker that challenges themself or a Straight-A student that avoids difficult classes?

Focusing on the process instead of the outcome will help your teenager develop a strong work ethic and love of learning. These are qualities that will benefit them their entire life.

Emphasizing the process can also give your teen specific areas to work on improving. Getting straight A’s is a huge and daunting task. Working on your homework each night is more manageable and achievable.

When your teenager does experience success, praise the journey and the effort it took them to get there. For example, celebrate their study habits and consistent studying instead of praising them for getting an A on an exam.

Shifting your emphasis to the process will help your teen do the same and inspire your teen’s motivation and self-discipline.

5. Pick Your Points of Emphasis

It can be easy to become concerned about your child’s future. You may have recurring thoughts about their options for higher education, their first job, and their career.

You may also notice all the things they need to learn to be a self-sufficient adult (i.e., cook, clean, stay organized, do their work, etc.).

It is tempting to point out and correct each of these shortcomings. However, doing so is counterproductive.

Pointing out all of your teen’s growth areas can overwhelm them. They may develop the feeling that they cannot do anything right.

Instead, pick three or four key topics that you think are important and stick to these topics. Let the other issues go.

Think back to when you were their age and what you were capable of. They may seem helpless now, but remember you were there at one point. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your teenager won’t become a responsible adult overnight.

You can't motivate your teen with the "right" answer

6. Avoid Fishing for the “Right” Answer

When talking to your teen about school or life in general, you will likely hear some perspectives you disagree with. It is tempting to correct or nudge them towards the “right” answer in these moments.

However, this will only shut down the conversation and make your teen less likely to come to you with their thoughts and concerns. It can also teach them to give the “right” answer rather than the honest one.

It is essential to listen to your teenager’s perspective, even if you disagree. This doesn’t mean you must condone their behavior or agree with their choices. It does mean that you should try to understand their point of view.

Instead of correcting them, ask them questions and try to understand their perspective.

If your teen feels like you respect their perspective and are actually listening to them, they are more likely to communicate with you. They are also more likely to heed your advice.

7. learn how to motivate young adults with Questions Instead of Lectures

When your teenager performs poorly on a test or fails to complete some of their responsibilities, it can be tempting to become prescriptive and lecture your teen about what they should do better.

Teenagers quickly learn to tune out this type of communication.

If you are committed to motivating teens, instead of giving your teenager a lecture or a pep talk, ask them questions. Some great questions to ask are:

Are you happy with the results?
What do you think went well?
What could you have done better?
How can I support you in the future?

These types of questions demonstrate that you care about your teen’s perspective. Additionally, by encouraging them to reflect and find a better path forward, you are teaching your teen to problem solve and have a growth mindset.

8. Empathize With Them

When your teenager complains about a problem they are having or gives you a reason why they could not meet an expectation, it may be tempting to dismiss their perspective.

You might have even told them, “Well, back in my day….”

Minimizing your teenager’s struggles is tempting, but everyone believes their problems are legitimate. Connecting with their struggles is an effective method of motivating teens.

Instead of dismissing their problem or immediately providing them with a solution, Practice active listening. Give them eye contact and let them speak. You can give guidance but ask if they want it first. Finally, ask follow-up questions.

This type of communication will make your teenager more likely to speak with you and ask for your advice and help. It will also demonstrate that their opinions and perspectives are valid.

Believing in their feelings and emotions is essential for problem-solving and developing a growth mindset.

9. Be the Change You Wish To See

It can be easy to focus on your teenager’s bad habits. Maybe they procrastinate or don’t clean their room.

Take a moment to think about your behavior. Do you always clean your room or do things on time?

I’m not suggesting that you need to be perfect. However, teenagers watch their parents closely and model their behavior after them.

If you want your teenager to be motivated, hard-working, and organized, you should also strive to model these behaviors.

To be a good role model for your teen, you can:

Acknowledge the mistakes you have made and what you did to move past them
Share your success and failures at work
Follow through on the commitments you make at home and avoid procrastination
Take care of your mental and physical health

Routines are essential for motivating teens

10. Establish a Healthy Routine

A healthy routine can help your teenager stay on track and be more productive. This is something that is best accomplished as a family. This can be an excellent way of modeling good behavior for your teen.

Some things you can do to establish a routine are:

Wake up at the same time every day
Eat breakfast and lunch at regular times
Take breaks throughout the day to move your body and get some fresh air
Do homework at the same time each day
Spend some time reading or doing another activity that you enjoy
Go to bed at a reasonable hour each night
Eat dinner together as a family

Of course, there will be days when things come up, and the routine has to be adjusted.

A regular structure will provide a framework that will support your teen while also providing them with the space to express their autonomy.

A weekly routine in which the entire family participates models the power of habit and demonstrates that you practice what you preach.

11. Set Expectations and Consequences Together

One of the most important things you can do to successfully learn how to motivate young adults is to set clear expectations and consequences.

This is something that should be done together. By involving your teenager, you give them additional ownership in this process and validate their opinion and perspective.

Some things you may want to consider are:

Chores that need to be done each day
Expectations for schoolwork and grades
How much screen time is allowed each day
Curfew
Household rules, such as no swearing or fighting

Additionally, you should collectively agree on the consequences of breaking the rules.

By establishing rules and consequences together, your teen will feel empowered and feel like they have more control and independence.

Making mistakes is part of motivating teens

12. Allow Your Teenager to Experience the Consequences of Their Actions

As a parent, you want to protect your child as much as possible. However, you also want to avoid micromanaging your teenagers.

This can be a tricky balancing act to follow, but your teenager must learn to accept the consequences of their actions.

If you clean up their mistake, this is the illusion of success for you and your teen.

For example, if your teen forgets their homework at home, and you bring it to school for them, they did not successfully complete their task. However, since you bailed them out, they still get the rewards.

Instead of learning to be responsible, your teen learned that they don’t have complete tasks because you will finish it for them. This type of behavior emphasizes the outcome, not the process.

Learning from mistakes is an essential step in becoming intrinsically motivated. Allowing your teen to fail will teach them to take responsibility for their actions.

If you let your teen learn from the consequences of their actions, you can avoid power struggles. They will also know why certain habits are so important.

13. Identify Your Teen’s Motivations

An important step in motivating your teen is identifying what motivates them. Focusing on the bigger picture issues like going to college, getting a good job, and supporting themselves financially can be tempting.

Unfortunately, your teenager will probably not connect with these issues, and focusing on them will not motivate your child.

Instead, ask your teenager what motivates them. What do they want to achieve, and why do they want it? If you want to encourage your teen, you need to speak their language.

For example, if your teen is motivated to spend more time with his friends, they focus on this when discussing the importance of doing homework during the week.

By embracing what motivates them, you are empowering your teen and helping them develop a reward system and delay gratification.

As they get older, these teen motivations will change and get left behind. However, teaching them to trust their current motivations is an essential step in their journey to becoming adults.

14. Boost Motivation With an Academic Coach

All of the tips on this list can help motivate your teenager. However, sometimes there are limits to what mom and dad can do.

Teenagers want more independence and agency, making them unwilling to listen to parents and teachers.

A great way to avoid this conflict is to find an academic coach to work with your teenager.

An academic coach will work with your teen to help them find their intrinsic motivation by giving them the support and feedback they need to thrive.

An academic coach is not an existing authority figure who can make it easier for your teen to engage with them openly. As a result, your teen is more likely to accept and follow through on the feedback from an academic coach.

Academic coaches specialize in motivating teens and working with one can help set your teen on the path to success.

About the Author: John Hyde

I am an educational coach specializing in teaching students’ academic fundamentals and a growth mindset.

If you’d like to discuss how I can help your teen be more motivated, foster good habits, and improve academic organization/performance, Book a Complimentary Discovery Call Here.

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Hi I’m John, author of this blog, academic coach, and founder of AE Academy.

I help teens reach their academic potential by empowering them with academic fundamentals, a growth mindset, and critical thinking.

If your teen is struggling to reach their academic potential, or isn’t learning the skills they need to succeed in school, we should connect.

It’s on me – Book Your Free Call Here

How to Survive High School: 10 Tips

Posted on September 14, 2022November 18, 2022 by John Hyde in Setting Goals for School

You have probably heard the saying, “high school is the best time of your life.” One of my classmates said this to me during my senior year. All I could think was “It was hard work figuring out how to survive high school!”

While high school is certainly a time to grow, learn, and find out who you are. I don’t think they are the best years of your life. In fact, I think they are some of the most challenging.

High school is a challenge, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a struggle. With these ten tips, you can learn how to thrive rather than just survive high school, and you will be well on your way to the high grades you are capable of.

10 Tips on How to Survive High School

I’ve created these tips to help you navigate both academics and your personal life in high school. Life isn’t all about school and growing as a person is just as important as doing well academically.

1. Learn How to Set Goals for Yourself

Goal setting is one of the most important things you can do, both academically and personally. Goal setting can give you more ownership over your high school experience and can make it more interesting. Choosing your areas of growth is also a good way to make school more engaging.

You can set both academic and personal goals. I recommend you set goals for each quarter or semester.

When selecting a goal, I recommend focusing on the action rather than the outcome. For example, if you want to improve your grades, instead of setting the goal for getting Straight As, instead set the goal of turning in all your assignments and studying for every test.

Focusing on the action is more likely to result in accomplishing your goal and it gives you a specific behavior or action to complete.

Organization is the key to learning how to survive high school. — Organization can help you survive high school.

2. How To Survive High School? Get Organized

High school is a big step up in comparison to middle school. You have a lot more responsibility and freedom. Your teachers will expect a lot more from you, especially as you take more difficult and challenging classes.

One of the easiest ways to learn how to survive high school is to get organized. Getting organized will make staying on top of all your classes much easier. It will also make it easier to manage your extracurricular activities as well.

Some of the things you can do to get organized include:

Have a binder/folder for each class
Keep your google drive organized
remove extra papers and junk from your backpack
Write down all your assignments in your agenda or phone
Put reminders in your phone for important assignments/activities

3. Survive High School by Creating a Schedule

Creating a weekly schedule is one of the best ways to survive high school. Thinking about all of your responsibilities, due dates, and activities can be exhausting. Keeping a schedule with everything going on in your life can make high school much easier.

You can create this schedule on a paper calendar or on your phone. In addition to writing down your various responsibilities, I recommend scheduling in time to study or complete various assignments in your schedule. This will help you stay on top of your work and ensure that you won’t fall behind.

4. Find Time for Yourself During High School

One of the keys of learning how to survive high school is taking care of yourself. Find out what makes your feel good and ready to take on the world. For some that might be reading their favorite book, for others it might be hanging out with their friends. This will look different for everyone.

Take time each week to participate in the activities that make you feel good. This personal time will go a long way in helping you sustain your hard work in academics and in your extracurriculars.

In addition to finding things that make you happy, it’s important to find time to relax. High school can be overwhelming and sometimes you just need a break. Taking a break might mean taking a hot bath, going for a walk or taking a nap. Find what works for you and make sure to schedule in some “me time” each week

5. Participate in an Extracurricular Activity

One of the most fun parts of high school are the group activities, clubs, and sports that you can participate in. Extracurricular activities are a great way to balance out school, do something fun, and meet new friends. There are so many different options for activities, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.

Good sleep is one of the best ways to survive high school. — Getting good sleep will make school easier.

6. Thrive in High School by Getting Enough Sleep

Enough sleep is one of the most important tips on this list but also one of the most challenging to accomplish. It’s important to get enough sleep because it allows your body and brain to recharge.

You should aim for at least eight hours of sleep per night and studies have shown that your brain retains information better after getting a good night’s rest.

In addition to getting eight hours of sleep per night, here are some tips that can help you maximize the sleep you are getting:

Stop using your phone 30-minutes before going to sleep
Listen to a sleep meditation
Avoid drinking caffeine in the afternoon
Go to bed and wake up at the same time everyday

7. Choose a Good Group of Friends

They say that you are an average of the five people you spend the most time around. Picking your friends is a huge part of high school, especially as people being to move down different paths.

You want to make sure that you spend time around people who inspire you, make you laugh, and build you up. These are the types of friends who will help you survive high school and thrive.

Communicating with your teachers is an essential step in learning how to survive high school — Don’t be afraid to ask your teacher’s questions.

8. Learn How To Communicate With Your High School Teachers

Your teachers may frustrate you at times, but I promise you that most of them are there to help you and want you to succeed. Communicating with your teachers can go a long way in helping you learn how to survive high school.

If you need help understanding a concept or want to know how you can improve, set up a meeting or visiting your teacher after school. Asking questions in class or sending your teacher’s emails are also good ways of communicating.

Do not wait until the last day of the quarter to ask for help. Communicate with your teachers early and often.

9. Ask for Help

Surviving high school is hard. It is even harder when you are doing it on your own and without the help and support of your friends and family. If you are struggling, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

There are so many resources available to you, whether it’s a guidance counselor, your favorite teacher, an educational coach, or a trusted friend. If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask for it.

10. Work With an Academic Coach

High school is hard, not matter how you cut it. If you have implemented some of these tips and are still finding high school a challenge, working with an academic coach is a great way to get the support that you need.

An academic coach can help you improve your time management skills, goal setting, and organization. Plus, a coach will work with you one-on-one to help you create a plan for success.

Wrapping Up

If you implement this list of ten tips, I guarantee that you will learn how to survive high school.

I recommend implementing two or three of these tips at a time. Over time, you can add more of them until you have mastered them all.

If you would like help implementing some of these tips, let’s talk. I am academic coach and I have helped hundreds of kids navigate the challenges of high school and meet their academic potential.

About the Author: John Hyde

I am an educational coach specializing in teaching students’ academic fundamentals and a growth mindset.

If you’d like to discuss how I can help your teen be more motivated, foster good habits, and improve academic organization/performance, Book a Complimentary Discovery Call Here.

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Author Spotlight

Hi I’m John, author of this blog, academic coach, and founder of AE Academy.

I help teens reach their academic potential by empowering them with academic fundamentals, a growth mindset, and critical thinking.

If your teen is struggling to reach their academic potential, or isn’t learning the skills they need to succeed in school, we should connect.

It’s on me – Book Your Free Call Here

Common Challenges Faced by Struggling Students

How an Online Success Coach Can Help Your Teen Overcome These Challenges

An online Success Coach Provides Personalized Support and Guidance

A Coach Can Help Your Teen Set Achievable Goals

Your Teen Will Learn Effective Study Skills

Coaches Improve Your Teen’s Time Management and Organizational Skills

Boosts Confidence and Motivation

Finding the Right Online Success Coach for Your Teen

About the Author: John Hyde

Author Spotlight

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What Causes Parents To Give Consequences For Not Doing Homework

1. Establish a Routine To Avoid Consequences for Not Doing Homework

2. Give them space When Doing Homework

3. Teach them Organizational and Time Management Skills To Avoid Consequences

4. Give behavior-based praise Instead of Consequences for Not Doing Homework

5. Model the behavior you want to see

6. Work With an Academic Coach Instead of using Punishment For Not Doing Homework

About the Author: John Hyde

Author Spotlight

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1. Accept Mistakes When Motivating Teenagers

2. Give Teenagers Independence to Motivate Them

3. Speak their Language When Motivating Teenagers

4. Create a Reward System

5. Use Praise When Motivating Teenagers

6. Ask Questions

7. Get Guilt-Free Academic Support

About the Author: John Hyde

Author Spotlight

Subscribe to AE Academy

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10 Tips On How to Stop Being Stressed From School

1. Stop Being Stressed By Getting High-quality Sleep

2. Exercise to Stop Feeling Stressed

3. Create a Positive Environment Around School

4. Help Your Teen Work Smarter, Not Harder

5. Create a Schedule or Routine to Reduce Academic Stress

6. Healthy Food and Hydration Can Reduce Stress Levels

7. Ask for Help and Learn how to Deal with School Stress and Anxiety

8. Engage with Your Emotions

9. Save Some Time For Yourself

10. Work with An Academic Coach to Stop being Stressed From School

Wrap Up

About the Author: John Hyde

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Why Your Teen Needs an Academic Mentor

What does an Academic Mentor Do?

How can Mentorship Benefit your Teen?

How Academic Mentorship can Benefit Parents

The Next Step

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The Long-term Benefits of Letting Your Teenager Fail in School

Letting Your Teenager Fail in School Prepares Them for the Future

Let your Teenager Get Comfortable being Uncomfortable

Avoiding Failure In School Causes Entitlement

Learning from Failure Teaches a Growth Mindset

Six Tips to Help Your Teen Navigate Failing in School

1. Embrace a Question-Based Approach While Letting Your Teenager Fail In School

2. Let your Teenager Set up Clear Expectations and Boundaries

3. Focus on A Specific Problem While Letting Your Teenager Fail In School

4. Establish a Routine with your Teenager

5. Hire an Academic Coach for Your Teenager

6. Succeed or Fail in School: Praise the Effort Rather Than the Outcome

Moving Forward

About the Author: John Hyde

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Nine Tips for Managing Academic Pressure and Mental Health

1. Address Your Mental Health to Help your Teen

2. Give Praise and Affirmations to Decrease Academic Pressure

3. Create a Reward System