School is out for the summer, but does that mean education is on hold ‘til fall? Of course not! Now is a great time to reflect on the past school year and determine new goals for the next one—before the memory of desks and notebooks fades in the summer sun. Here’s how.

Academics
Talk with your daughter about what went well this past school year. What did she feel good about? What were her favorite subjects, least favorite subjects, greatest challenges and achievements? What would she like to do better next year?

Extracurriculars
What did she enjoy? What new activities would she like to try? How did you both feel about the balance of schoolwork and extracurriculars? Was your family too busy? Do you need to cut back? What would your daughter like to achieve next year?

Socializing
Finally, chat about friendships. How did her class get along this past year? Were there any difficult friendships or “frenemies” that need prayer or guidance? How would she like to improve those relationships next school year? What are her hopes and fears?

Based on these conversations, help your daughter to formulate goals in each of the three categories: academics, extracurriculars, and relationships. Write them down on a piece of paper.

Now for the big question. What can you do this summer to begin working toward those goals?

Academics
Maybe your daughter can take a summer class or online course on a particular subject of interest. Take her to the library to check out books on favorite topics or subjects she needs to improve. Search Pinterest for fun printables that seem more like games than school work.

Extracurriculars
Try a new sport this summer, audition for a play, or sign up for science camp. Encourage your daughter to pursue what she enjoys while she’s free from the confines of the school schedule.

Socializing
Sometimes summer is just a welcome break from school drama. Make deliberate plans to visit with friends your daughter wants to see—those who will encourage her—and be intentional about building up her God-confidence. Remind her she is valued and precious in His sight, and His opinion of her is the only true measure of her worth.