They run out of time before the project is due. They forget to buy poster board until the stores have closed. Parents can help by teaching children to think ahead.

Here’s how:

1. Think of a situation that might interest your child. For example, “What would happen if the world ran out of oil?”

2. Have your child list all the possible consequences. List both the good and the bad things. “It would be bad that our cars wouldn’t work. However, there could be new cars that would pollute less.”

3. Have your child choose the things that are most—and least—likely to occur. Then think about the outcomes that could be best or worst.

4. Call this the “Think Ahead Game.” In time, your child may actually start thinking about what will happen if she puts off working on a project until the last minute.

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