Helping Teens Build Strong Time Management Skills

Time management is one of the most valuable skills your child can learn in high school. It’s not just about making sure every minute of the day is filled. Instead, it’s about finding balance.

As NHA College Counseling and Early College Manager Rachel Pini explains, “One of the most important things about time management is that it's less about filling every second of the day and more about helping teens learn how to balance their education, extracurriculars, and relationships. When teens practice time management, they are not only more likely to get homework done in a timely manner but also are more likely to feel more confident and in control in both academic and non-academic situations.”

When students master these skills in high school, they are better prepared for the transition to college and the workforce. Here are some practical ways you can help your teen start practicing strong time management habits:

Use a Planner or Calendar

Encourage your child to track assignment due dates, test days, and essay deadlines in a physical planner or a digital calendar. Adding sports, club meetings, and family events alongside school deadlines can help them see the bigger picture of how their time is being spent.

Break Big Tasks into Smaller Steps

Big projects can feel overwhelming. Show your child how to break them into smaller parts with mini deadlines. For example, if an essay is due in a month, plan when the outline, first draft, and final edits should be finished.

Create a Daily Study Routine

Setting aside a consistent time and place for homework can help remove the stress of procrastination. A routine study time, even just 30 minutes each day can make a huge difference.

Focus on One Task at a Time

Multitasking may seem efficient, but it usually leads to more time wasted. If your child is watching a video lesson while scrolling social media, they’re more likely to miss key points and need rewatch. Encourage them to silence their phone during study time and reward themselves with a short break afterward.

Model Good Time Management at Home

Teens learn by example. When parents and caregivers use to-do lists, limit multitasking, plan ahead, and adjust schedules as needed, students see how these strategies work in real life. Helping your teen build strong time management skills today sets them up for success in the classroom, in their friendships, and in their future career. With your support and some daily practice, they’ll grow in confidence and feel more in control of their time.