Parent/Family Member Resource - How to guide

There are many times in our children's lives when we are NEEDED. But, at each of these moments, what is needed varies greatly! It is important for parents to remember this, especially for this project. After all, it is a personal project.

So, what do you do and need to know? How do you support them?

1. Make it your business to know the project expectation.
1. Review the material on this blog
2. Email me at rvolzer@sanjuan.edu if you have questions, and encourage the students to do the same, or to also email their supervisor - but many supervisors are not over summer.
2. Make time for students to work on this project over summer.
1. If you are traveling, make sure you are considering the student's needs for this project. Have a conversation with them about what their Action Plan is (ask to see their calendars). 
1. Maybe they select a project about the global travel, or something that requires traveling to where you are already going as a family.
2. If you are working and away from home most days, some checking in would be helpful. Send a text, ask for a pic of progress, ask to see their notes.
3. If you are a digital native, as the student to share a view only version of their files for the project so you can peek in whenever works for you - even when they/you are not personally available to chat.
3. Understand that it is not for you to "save" them from failure, but it is your job to support the project and the time it takes for students to complete.
1. Part of the process is an assessment of their growth, which means that things will not be perfect the first time around. They need support in understanding the value of research, revisiting their approach, and time management.
4. Help them find resources.
1. Some students will want to interview people as part of their research. Maybe you know people to help with this part of their project.
2. Students will need a product, and with this comes a cost for some students. Be sure you are aware of this and agree to the project expense and help them be resourceful.  
5. Be Positive! Be Encouraging!
1. Seriously, fear is not always a motivation that works for these long term projects. Rewards and Incentives only work for some students, and in the end the project is something that they are supposed to be doing. If they do not complete work over summer, there are natural consequences that come in August when they arrive back to school - the stress level is HUGE. 
2. Pose questions in a non-judgmental way.
1. I am interested to see what you have done so far. Can we talk about the Personal Project later this week? What works for you, or, I am available _________, can we meet/talk then?
1. Stating it in such a way would allow them to see/hear the subtle reminder, get motivated to work, and know that you are interested in their success/struggles with the process of the project.
6. Get other family involved in being aware of the project, and asking about the project
1. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, family friends, etc. are a wonderful - once removed - support that is often a little less threatening, hence it is received better. I have seen many grandparents provide awesome support in past years! Students will be reflecting on the process, so their emotional wellness is important as well. They need to think through struggles, but that does not mean they are to be left to their own devices for the whole project.