Many of the highest-paying jobs in the future will require a working knowledge of math and science. But many students, especially girls, think these subjects are too hard. As a result, they take only the minimum number of classes. As a result, they are shut out from many great jobs.

Parents can start to change those attitudes. A study by the University of Wisconsin found that parents play a crucial role in helping girls feel confident that they can tackle math and science. Parent support, in fact, is the most important support for girls who do go on in math and science.

Here are some ways you can encourage your teen to do her best in math and science:

• Expect her to succeed. Girls need to learn that they can--and must--master these important subjects. Send the message that you know she can do it. If she's having trouble with a math problem, say, "Stick with it. You'll get it if you keep at it."
• Assume she's interested in math and science. Open the hood of the car and show her how the engine works. Ask her to make a budget for your next trip to the grocery store. Challenge her with logic puzzles. All these activities involve math and science.
• Don't protect her from mistakes. Often, girls are overly protected in the lab and at home by parents who don't want them to experience failure. Instead, recognize that sometimes girls need the chance to make big, interesting mistakes.

Reprinted with permission from the October 2009 issue of Parents Still make the difference!® (High School Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2009 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc. Source: "Tracking the Reason Many Girls Avoid Science and Math," Science Daily, www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/09/080905153807.htm.