Helping Your Kids Manage Schoolwork Overload

by Michele Sherman, MFT

Many young adults struggle academically as schoolwork becomes more challenging. These kids may have a history of low and/or high academic achievement, both of which need to be addressed consistently. With teen’s and parent’s experiencing life transitions and changes, it is easy for parents to miss the signs and symptoms that something can be wrong with their child.

Often times, a parent will bring their child in for individual and/or family therapy with common complaints of experiencing feelings of overwhelm, stress & problems with communication resulting in difficulty with resolving conflicts. The following suggestions can keep your child on track to overcoming these challenges: 

1. Pay attention to your child’s feelings, needs and concerns. You can ask yourself, “am I encouraging open dialogue” and listening to what they’re saying and really feeling?
2. Set reasonable expectations and standards for your children based on their academic performance, ability and work. Are they working hard or are they slacking off? Monitor your child”s progress.
3. Follow through by speaking to their teachers and school counselor. Is there a counselor at school that the child can talk to, who can advocate for him?
4. Find out if tutoring is available at school or hire a tutor.
5. Establishing good study habits is very important. Have your child keep to a schedule so work is done in a timely manner.
6. Eating healthy and sleep is essential to the developing brain. Make sure they have a set bedtime and start the day with a nutritious breakfast.

About the author: Michele Sherman, MFT is a licensed marriage and family therapist who has been a practicing psychotherapist for the past fifteen years. She received her Master’s Degree from Ryokan College in Los Angeles, and her Bachelor’s Degree from the California Institute of Integral Studies, in San Francisco.

In her private practice, Michele works with individuals, adolescents and families. Her specialties include working with adolescents and adults with emotional disorders, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and various relationship issues. micheleshermanmft.com