He can do this by writing down a list of goals and ways to accomplish them.

Remember, though—this can only work if the goals represent what your child wants to do. Talk with your child to make sure his goals are in line with family values.

Helpful goals:

• Represent what the child wants to accomplish.

• Are specific. “I want to raise my math grade by one letter.” Not: “I want to do better in math.”

• Are reasonable. “I want to get a part in the class play next year.” Not: “I want a part in a major motion picture before I get to high school.”

• Include steps for reaching the goal. “If I want to turn in all my assignments on time this year, I’ll need to get a planner. Then I’ll need to use my planner to mark down times and dates for completing each step of my assignment.”

• Include a way to head off problems. “I’m going to have soccer practice two nights a week. So if I want to turn my assignments in on time, I’ll have to plan to do extra homework on Sunday afternoon.”

Encourage your child to post his goals in a place where he can refer to them often. About once a month, ask him to review his goals. He can track his progress and make any necessary changes.

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