Younger teens typically experience a dip in school engagement. Electives can help them stay excited about learning.

For anyone who has children, grandchildren or siblings nearing the transition to high school, there’s some thoughts and advice here that could be really helpful to them. Also, parents don’t have to worry too much about right or wrong choice.

The elective selection process can place too much pressure on students. The choices are framed as “making firm decisions about the future”, at a time when they are trying to work out who they are.

When young teens have a choice, they should consider:

  • electives that align with their genuine interests and spark curiosity

  • subjects that reflect current strengths

  • units that might connect to possible futures without feeling like being locked into a specific career pathway.