7 Steps of Highly Responsible Students

1.THEY SET GOALS
Goals keep kids focused on the future. That's why they are the foundation of responsible behavior - and success in school. Goals help students focus on what's important and what's not. If they have a vision of where they want to go, they're more likely to get there. And students with goals find it easier to say "no" to irresponsible behaviors...because they are saying "yes" to their vision of the future.

2.THEY PLAN THEIR TIME
Responsible people meet their obligations - whether it's turning in a paper on the day it's due or having a report on the boss's desk when it's needed. But it takes planning. (Remember the old saying. "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.") Use a big calendar to help teach your child how to organize his/her time. Write down all commitments and use the calendar to plan time for homework each day.

3.THEY STUDY EVERY DAY.
Learning any subject is like building a brick wall - you do it steadily, one step at a time. Responsible students set aside time for homework or studying every day. On the days when their teacher assigns no homework, these students "assign themselves." That may be the day they review vocabulary words. Or, they may take a few minutes to review notes.

4.THEY TAKE NOTES IN CLASS
Students who earn all "A"s seem to have one thing in common: they take notes in class. They have learned that teachers will almost always spell out what they think is important (which is what's likely to be on the test). Teach your child to take notes when the teacher is talking. Spend time reviewing them before a test - and watch grades go up.

5.THEY HAVE THE TOOLS THEY NEED
A carpenter wouldn't think of showing up without a hammer. A nurse always has a stethoscope. But, some students seem to think they can go to class without the pencils, paper and other tools they need. Those are the students that drive teachers crazy.

6.THEY KEEP THEIR COMMITMENTS
Responsible people honor their commitments - to others and to themselves. They succeed in school by doing their assignments well and on time. They do their share of the group project. They go to soccer practice even when it's cold. Parents can teach about commitments by example. Talk with children about the commitments you have made to the family - to provide meals, to keep clothes clean, to care for anyone who is sick. Ask children to make commitments of their own at home. And help them feel the satisfaction that comes from meeting their commitments.

7.THEY GET READY AHEAD OF TIME
Some students start out every morning in a crisis. They can't find their homework. They don't have time to eat breakfast. The shirt they want to wear isn't ironed. Responsible students have learned that being late, or being early, is not something that simply happens to them. It is a choice they can make. Teach your child to take five or 10 minutes before bedtime to get ready for the next day. Pack the backpack. Make lunch. Lay out clothes. Children will soon see that those few minutes will make the morning easier...and help him get to school ready to learn.

21 DAYS TO RESPONSIBLE HABITS
Experts say that if we repeat an action every day for just 21 days, it is likely to become automatic. So, for the next 21 days, encourage your kids to act on the habits of responsible students. They'll soon find they do them without even thinking. And, they'll be more responsible - and more successful - in school as well!!!