Share these tips with your teen, so she can build a good foundation for high school and beyond:

• Take school seriously. Pay attention in class, stay on top of assignments and study for tests.

• Pick friends carefully. Fair or not, people judge us by the company we keep. Kids who care about school, who respect each other and adults, and who don’t get into serious trouble are usually the best kind of friends to have.

• Stay away from drugs, alcohol and anything else people might be using to get high.

• Limit the screen time. You are preparing for adulthood, and most adults have to work before they play. Finish homework before turning on the TV or chatting on the computer.

• Get some exercise. Or have a favorite hobby. Or make a deal with a friend that you can call each other anytime you need some cheering up. High school can be stressful. Teens who don’t have a healthy outlet for stress too often turn to unhealthy habits.

• Have supportive adults in your life. Parents are most important of all, but teens who can also rely on a teacher, a coach or another trusted adult have the best chance of success.

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