Take advantage of available educational tools and resources for your child 
Make sure your child has the right tools in math. Unlike the calculators we grew up with, graphing calculators are math learning tools used from middle school through high school. Research has shown that students who use a graphing calculator at home and in class do better in math2, like the TI-Nspire graphing calculator from Texas Instruments designed with computer features that help students better visualize math concepts for a deeper understanding.

Ensure you child is prepped for the SAT* or ACT exams that are so important in today's competitive college admissions.

Many parents are not aware that graphing calculators such as the TI-Nspire graphing calculator can be used on college entrance exams and students who use these calculators on tests can have a huge leg up.

Students should check out The Princeton Review for test prep resources that can prepare them for college entrance exams. They even offer free test prep questions that can be downloaded to students' Texas Instruments graphing calculators.

Take advantage of homework help.
There are many study group and tutoring options to help your child. Online resources, like Tutor.com, are available any time your child needs help – on their schedule, not on yours. You should also check with your child's school for more options.

Communicate the value of math education: Math is important regardless of what your teens wants to be in life. In fact, studies show that people with strong math backgrounds are more likely to be employed and earn more.

Get to know your child's guidance counselor and teachers: At the beginning of the school year, become acquainted with your child's guidance counselors and teachers and stay in touch - they're a wealth of information and can ensure that your child is taking challenging classes in order to be prepared for a successful future.

Set education and life goals with your children: Before school starts, work with your child to create a list of goals they want to accomplish during the coming semester, school year and beyond. Discuss careers and make sure they're choosing the courses they need to achieve their goals. Make it a priority to set goals and to help them succeed in school, not just for good grades but also for the fulfillment of their dreams. Post them in a visible spot and review them with your child regularly to ensure you are both on track.

Make their knowledge applicable to the real world: Help them see how what they learn in school is important in real life, like how they can use math skills everyday to make better financial choices and even budget their allowance.

For information about research showing that graphing calculator use improves students' math skills as well as their attitudes toward math, visit www.education.ti.com/research.

* SAT & AP are registered trademarks of the College Entrance Examination Board, which was not involved in the production of and does not endorse this product. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc., which was not involved in the production of and does not endorse this product. Policies subject to change. Visit www.collegeboard.com and www.act.org for more information.