The Fifth Season: Back to School

It’s that time of year again. Parents are rediscovering their “freedom,” while fresh faces are emerging into the early morning hours that they most likely haven’t seen in weeks. Yes – the “Back to School” season has begun!

While parents are celebrating the return, how are teenagers coping? Better than you might think! More than half of both middle school and high school age students agree that they enjoy going to school. A set schedule may encourage that enjoyment: 43% of high school students agreed that they like to follow a routine.

But what about all that time spent on their smartphones over the summer? It turns out it’s not a bad thing. Over 27% of cell phone carrying teens have gone online to for research/educational reasons in the past 7 days, while 54% say that their cell phone should help them get work done when and where they want. And with 87% of teens saying they want to go to college – all of this research and work should pay off.

But let’s not avoid the subject of “Back to School” shopping. The great news for parents is that 39% of teens generally go to the mall with their parents. (Yes – they will be seen in public with you!) While parents are more likely to pay for the merchandise, 65% of teens will decide what to purchase. And all of this bonding time is important because 56% of teens agree A LOT that they really like to be with their families.

Teachers – there is good news for you too! Only 17% of teens agree that they don’t like their teachers.

So let’s celebrate another school year by looking forward to all that it may bring – including that first weekend of sleeping in again!

For more information on teens, their younger siblings, or their parents, contact us.