My teenage son has come down with a curious affliction this spring. His symptoms include increased indifference and frequent use of the snooze feature on his phone’s alarm clock. I believe he is suffering from Senioritis, a common condition that strikes most seventeen and eighteen-year-olds in the waning days of their senior year.
Senioritis can have real consequences for teens. They might see their grades plummet, which could affect merit aid or even an offer for admission at colleges that require a final transcript. Teens might stop preparing as well as they could for AP exams, which means they miss out on potential college credit.
So how can seniors like my son finish the year strong? Check out these 8 ways that teens can conquer Senioritis:
MAINTAIN A ROUTINE. Teens should keep doing what they have been doing all year. Go to classes, virtual or in-person, and attend activities such as club meetings, team practices, and church or temple. Try to maintain a good sleep routine, too.
STAY ORGANIZED. It is important for your Senior to keep track of test dates, meetings with a guidance counselor, and other events such as cap and gown fittings as they move towards graduation. Encourage them to use a planner, whether in hard copy form or through an app on their phone, to log deadlines and other important events.
CELEBRATE AND ENJOY THIS SPECIAL TIME. Having fun is a reward for hard work, provides something to look forward to, and can motivate teens to stay the course and finish strong. After all, life is not always serious. Maybe your senior can attend prom or host one last epic get-together with friends. Or you could plan a special family event, such as a weekend road trip.
FOCUS ON FINALIZING COLLEGE, TRADE SCHOOL OR CAREER PLANS. Most colleges require a decision on attendance (as well as a deposit) by May 1. And once your teen has decided which place of higher learning will be their new home, they will need to select housing, browse orientation dates, and contact an advisor for guidance on choosing freshman classes. For college-bound teens as well as those going to trade school or starting their careers, the simple act of focusing on their future plans has been shown by psychologists to predict better behavior in the present as well as increased success with future plans.
REST AND RECHARGE. Senior year can present an exhaustive pace of school and year-end events. Making time for self-care, such as journaling or creative activities like painting, will help your teen hit the reset button. Even as little as a half-hour to relax and unwind can leave your teen feeling refreshed.
STAY PHYSICALLY HEALTHY. Have your teen battle sluggishness with exercise, which releases endorphins and boosts energy. They can practice making healthy, fresh meals, too, especially since they are still under your roof and you’re footing the bill! Your teen will notice a difference in how they feel after eating well and also gain confidence in this life skill.
TALK TO SOMEONE. Some teens may realize that they are checking out and suffering from Senioritis. Talking with their guidance counselor, who has witnessed the effects of the Senior Slide time and time again, can help your teen get back on track. Or there may be a best friend, favorite teacher, coach, or parent (ahem!) your teen can confide in to help them plug back in.
FINALLY, SURROUND YOUR TEEN WITH LOVE. That could mean you spoil them with small gifts like gas cards or comfy socks or that you perform little actions like making their bed or their favorite breakfast. Teens will notice your love and the sense of security it generates. This will no doubt buoy them as graduation approaches.
Katy M. Clark is a writer who celebrates her imperfections as a mom at ExperiencedBadMom.com.