With one of my children off to college in less than two weeks and another beginning high school next month, I've been worrying a bit that they won't be ready to buckle down and concentrate on their studies after enjoying the freedom of summer. 
In addition to their academic responsibilities, both of them will have plenty on their plates. Mr. College Bound has two scholarships with strings attached, so he's looking at 10 hours per week of community service and another 3 to 4 hours for a musical commitment. Those items are not flexible--his scholarships depend on them. And he wants to play Ultimate Frisbee and join the stage crew for theater productions on top of all this.
His sister is hoping to make the field hockey team at her school, which involves three hours of practice per day--plus weekends. She'll leave the house at 7:30 AM, not to return until 6:15 PM, and then have to shower, eat, and jump into homework. She plans to play winter and spring sports as well, so this will probably be her schedule all year 'round. At least in her case, Mom and Dad will be around to nag her to get her work done.
Both of them are going to need to learn to manage their time well. That might not be an easy task for students who haven't yet completed their summer-reading assignments.
COUPON TIME
Got a student at home? Make sure they have the link to our Student Discount page--and check it every time they go shopping!
10% off your order at OfficeDepot.com 
Enter coupon code 20974930.
Valid through: September 20, 2010
See other Office Depot coupons!
Up to $10 off with Click-and-Save Coupons at Solutions.com 
Use this link to access eligible items.
While supplies last.
Enter coupon code AUGSAVE.
Valid through: September 2, 2010
See other Solutions coupon codes!
