Next year, my grandson will be entering his freshman year of high school. I can’t believe it’s even possible and his parents feel the same way. It wasn’t too long ago he walked into preschool with his Lightning McQueen lunchbox and backpack!

If you have a child starting freshman year in high school, it’s a milestone that can feel equally exciting and nerve-wracking, for both of you. Suddenly, everything gets a little more real: grades matter more, friendships shift, and conversations about college and careers begin to surface.

As a parent, you might be wondering: How can I best support them without overwhelming them? What changes should I expect? And how do I balance staying involved with giving them space to grow?

This guide will walk you through what to expect during that critical first year and how to set your teen up for success—socially, academically, and emotionally.