Listen, Listen, Listen: Practical Advice from Psychologist Michael Thompson on Motivating Juniors to Focus on College
Posted on Tue, 03/26/2013 - 15:24
Yesterday, psychologist and author Michael Thompson joined us to provide a window into the adolescent psyche and how that can affect the interactions between parent and teen as the college application process begins. Today, in Part 2 of Thompson's post, he has some excellent recommendations – and support – for parents so that they can put these insights into action and meaningfully advise their sons and daughters.
With all the developmental observations and warnings from my previous post in mind, here are eight suggestions for motivating your high school junior to focus on the college process.
1) Start with yourself. Before you approach your child, go to a friend whose child has gone through the process. Choose someone who is reasonable and honest, who will explain what worked and who will also confess to mistakes. If you have a parent/friend you respect to walk you through the process, it will arm you and calm you.