Don't let your teen's work begin to slide as nicer weather arrives

As soon as the days become longer, students' attention spans become shorter. It's like there's something in the air besides pollen that entices kids of all ages to skimp on studying in favor of extra time outdoors.

To make sure your teen is still finishing her homework:

• Talk about it. Ask questions about her assignments=97which one was = the most interesting? Which one was the most difficult? This will remind your child that even if she doesn't care about her homework, you still do.
• Time it. If your teen averaged three hours of homework per night during the winter, a new 15-minute homework average should make you suspicious. A comment like, "Your teacher sure let up on the homework suddenly," might be enough to fix the problem.
• Combine it. Suggest that your teen do her reading on the front steps. That way, she can enjoy the sun – without sacrificing her homework time.

Reprinted with permission from the April 2008 issue of Parents Still make the difference! (High School Edition) newsletter. Copyright ©2008 The Parent Institute, a division of NIS, Inc.