His grades have dropped, and he doesn’t seem as interested in school as he once did.

You may be disappointed. But the important thing now is to take action to help your child have a better year next year.

Here’s how:

• Talk to teachers and school officials. Ask them why they think your teen’s performance and interest have dropped. Get suggestions for helping him.

• Think about messages you send your teen. Have you made clear that school is very important?

• Get your teen’s opinion. Pick a time when you are both relaxed. Ask your teen what has bothered him about this past school year.

• Work together on a system to help your teen improve. What does he think would motivate him to try harder? Set a goal you can both live with. Write down steps for reaching that goal.

• Call your doctor. Could your teen have a physical problem? The doctor may want to examine him.

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