20 ways to provide meaningful support to students

Knowing how to support students in meaningful ways involves so much more than just helping them succeed academically in class. It takes creating an environment where they feel safe, valued, and prepared to navigate the difficulties of life, both in and out of school. By addressing classroom challenges and real-life concerns, you can give students the tools they need to bounce back from setbacks resilient and ready to thrive.

The following tips for supporting students are designed to be used across academic, emotional, social, and practical spaces. Read on to explore strategies that support students so they’re set up for success.

Academic support for students

Academic help is a critical part of supporting students. It’s not just teaching content in class. The goal is to help students find confidence as learners. It’s more about meeting students where they are and helping them grow than it is about ensuring they ace every test. There are several strategies you can use to help struggling students find academic success.

1. Provide clear instructions

Effective teaching depends on clarity. When students feel uncertain about expectations or goals, it can lead to disengagement. Providing clear, step-by-step guidance and checking for understanding of complex concepts can help students with anxiety and empower them. It helps them take ownership of their work so they can see exactly what’s needed to succeed.

Tips for providing clear instructions:

• Use data-driven programs and technology-enhanced instruction
• Pair project-based learning with digital tools
• Use visual support in addition to verbal explanation
• Check often for understanding
• Establish learning goals (and revisit them)
• Scaffold complex tasks by breaking assignments into manageable steps
• Encourage active learning with group work, peer explanation, and hands-on problem-solving to deepen understanding

2. Offer tutoring and help

High-dosage tutoring is an intensive and evidence-based intervention that helps struggling students make significant progress in class academically. A consistent relationship with the same tutor is a powerful way to close learning gaps. Students who participate in high-dosage tutoring often see remarkable growth. Research from the University of Chicago Education Lab found that high-dosage tutoring helped math students achieve up to two and a half years of math growth in a single school year.

Some innovative ways to offer tutoring and additional help include:

• Hosting before and after school programs
• Offering targeted help during breaks
• Building additional support into the school day
• Using virtual tutoring platforms
• Partnering with local community organizations
• Implementing progress-monitoring tools in tutoring sessions to check for understanding

3. Create accessible materials

Classroom accessibility has shifted from a compliance issue to making sure students can fully engage with the curriculum they are presented with. Every student needs access to learning, regardless of background, skill level, or ability. A key way to ensure this is by making all materials readable and available in multiple formats. You can do this by:

• Using digital tools like screen readers and speech-to-text tech
• Offering visual magnifiers
• Giving materials in advance to allow students to view concepts before class
• Providing large print and high contrast versions of material
• Creating audio and video versions
• Allowing students to convert text to speech
• Using clear, straightforward language and avoid jargon that students aren’t familiar with
• Formatting documents in a readable way, using built-in headings, lists, bullet points, and tables for navigation
• Using captions on videos and include transcripts for multimedia content
• Running materials through online accessibility checkers before sharing

4. Give constructive feedback

Feedback can be beneficial, but it should be specific. General praise is sometimes needed, but constructive feedback from a teacher or peer tells students where they can improve and how to do it. Research shows that teachers who offer regular formative assessments with actionable suggestions have students who feel emotionally supported and achieve better academic progress.  

When giving feedback to students:

• Give specific feedback instead of general praise
• Connect the feedback you offer to learning goals
• Provide feedback promptly and throughout the learning process, not just as a formal assessment at the end
• Use open-ended questions and concepts to encourage students to reflect and use critical thinking skills
• Combine both teacher and peer feedback for a more well-rounded perspective
• Offer clear and actionable steps students can take to improve
• Ensure students have enough time to act on feedback and revise their work accordingly

5. Track student goals

Goal setting empowers students by teaching them to monitor their own progress. When students help define learning objectives and check in with teachers regularly, engagement and outcomes improve. Setting weekly, monthly, or project-based goals turns abstract desires into measurable steps for students.

Some ways to track student goals effectively include:

• Setting regular meetings to help students reflect, track progress, and set new goals
• Using student-friendly progress charts or graphs for visual learners
• Using digital tools or apps that let students track, monitor, and update goals independently
• Reinforcing the importance of setting short-term, specific, and measurable goals along with weekly, monthly, or term-length goals
• Using visual goal trackers (like thermometers or leaderboards) to motivate students and celebrate progress
• Helping students take ownership by personalizing goals based on interests and strengths
• Reinforcing effort and growth by celebrating milestones in progress

6. Allow flexible deadlines

Accommodating students might include offering flexible deadlines on certain projects or assignments. According to research, teachers who offer flexible deadlines increase students’ learning experiences, enhance engagement, and improve overall mental well-being. Flexibility lets students successfully navigate whatever they might be going through—including personal, health, or family issues—without worrying about academic penalty. They can be invaluable for students with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. 

^{EXPERT INSIGHTS
The biggest indicator that a student may be having a mental health challenge is that there is a change in behavior. So if a student starts failing to turn in assignments, is absent, is not engaging with other students in ways they used to, these would all be signs that would necessitate having a conversation with the student to get a better idea of what might be happening.}
_{- Laura Magnuson, MA, MS, LAMFT, VP of Clinical Engagement}

Emotional and mental health support for students

Emotional health and well-being shape learning in several ways. As educators, it’s important to know how to recognize signs of mental health challenges. It’s equally essential to create environments where students feel psychologically safe.

7. Foster a safe environment

Physically and emotionally safe classrooms enable students to thrive. Modeling restorative justice and using trauma-informed concepts gives students space to be vulnerable. When schools and teachers cultivate positive relationships and implement SEL practices, they consistently see that students are more connected. There are improvements in attendance, academic achievement, and mental health.

You can foster a safe environment for students by:

• Starting days with SEL check-ins or morning meetings to prepare students emotionally for their day
• Creating calming spaces or chill corners so students can learn to self-regulate
• Using positive and kind verbal and nonverbal cues
• Establishing and maintain consistent routines (but allow for flexibility)
• Teaching emotional literacy so students can practice recognizing and labeling their feelings
• Using trauma-informed behavior management practices like restorative justice techniques instead of punishments
• Implementing peer support systems, such as check-in buddies and peer mentors

8. Check in on well-being

You should build time in your routines for regular check-ins. Supporting mental wellness is crucial for today’s students. Schools that have dedicated roles and protocols often have highly engaged students and improved health outcomes.

You can do this through:

• Mood meters
• Morning circles
• Regular one-on-one talks
• Observing signs of withdrawal, irritability, and changes in personal habits or social circles
• Surveys to get comprehensive data on well-being over time

9. Connect students to counseling resources

Studies show that nearly 8 million students in the United States don’t have access to a school counselor. As an educator or administrator, you have the power to advocate for students. Increasing staff and building partnerships with community mental health organizations are effective strategies to combat the lack of access. 

Consider enhancing support by:

• Advocating for hiring additional school counselors
• Forging partnerships with community health organizations
• Using online therapy for students to increase accessibility
• Training school staff and educators on recognizing mental health warning signs
• Using grant funding and policy advocacy at the district and state levels to increase resources
• Implementing culturally responsive counseling programs to meet the needs of all students

10. Teach stress management

Stress management is a coping skill that offers incredible benefits. Incorporating stress management into lessons can reduce anxiety and help students develop resilience. Modeling stress management techniques gives students permission to discuss emotional challenges they may be facing and reduces overall stress in the classroom.

Teach your students the following stress management techniques:

• Emotional regulation techniques
• Progressive relaxation
• Guided breathing exercises for stress and anxiety
• Journaling
• Affirmations

11. Encourage mindfulness

If you’re looking for ideas on how to support students, research suggests that mindfulness practices in schools can improve emotional well-being. It reduces behavioral problems, stress, disturbances, and suicidal ideation. It can help students manage anger more effectively and provide a sense of belonging. Meditation doesn’t have to be an hour-long exercise to be effective, either.  

Even the following simple exercises can help students engage in mindfulness:

• Breathing exercises
• Guided visualization
• Mindful movement like yoga or gentle stretching
• Positive affirmations
• Journaling

Social support for students

Social support and connections are the backbone of student well-being. When students feel a sense of belonging and community, their academic achievement can flourish. Research shows that social support systems like peer mentoring, collaborative activities in the classroom, parental involvement, and teacher support are crucial to emotional health and academic success.

^{EXPERT INSIGHTS
The peer connection and social belonging are critically important for student well being. When students feel connected they are more likely to be engaged in learning, resilient to adversity, and less prone to isolate from others.}
_{- Laura Magnuson, MA, MS, LAMFT, VP of Clinical Engagement}

12. Promote peer mentoring

According to research, peer mentoring programs can improve attendance and reduce dropout rates. They have been proven to boost self-confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Ensuring access to peer mentoring programs provides students with critical emotional support that they may not have anywhere else.

13. Facilitate group collaboration

Collaborative work and group projects help students develop essential teamwork skills they’ll take with them throughout life. This type of collaboration encourages students to examine and solve real-world problems together. It helps them practice communication, teaches the art of negotiation, and reminds them of the importance of finding supportive networks. Facilitating group collaboration prepares students for future roles in life.

You can facilitate group collaboration by:

• Using icebreakers and teambuilding exercises
• Assigning group roles like coordinators, notetakers, presenters, and timekeepers—and rotate responsibilities regularly
• Offering explicit instructions for group tasks
• Establishing ground rules that outline the need for respectful communication and active listening
• Creating mixed groups with diverse abilities and backgrounds
• Using reflections so students can evaluate their work and the collaborative process

14. Celebrate student achievements

Acknowledging growth and effort—whether big or small—will strengthen students’ sense of self and value. Studies show that focusing on strengths before assessments can boost optimism, reduce negative emotions and stress, and increase emotional well-being.  

Ways to celebrate student achievements:

• Have a wow-work-wall or bulletin board to display projects and achievements
• Give verbal praise to highlight effort and skills
• Send notes home or make calls to families to acknowledge accomplishments
• Have celebration events or award ceremonies
• Use digital portfolios to allow students to curate and share their best work
• Create opportunities for peer recognition

15. Encourage extracurriculars

When students are encouraged to participate in clubs, sports, and creative activities, they connect to their community and offer an outlet for their passion. It’s also an excellent stress relief and relationship-building experience. Make sure your school offers a range of accessible options like:

• Involving students in creating and running clubs and activities
• Explaining the benefits of extracurricular participation—like skill development, community building, and academic enhancement
• Getting parents and the community engaged to encourage student involvement
• Personalizing outreach so students are informed and motivated about opportunities

16. Connect students to community opportunities

Connecting students to community opportunities broadens their perspective about the real world. Volunteering, job shadowing, and local events are all effective strategies to transform your classroom, so students see themselves as part of the larger world around them.  

This might also include:

• Reaching out to local organizations for volunteer opportunities and internships to connect students with real-world experiences
• Asking community leaders or guest speakers to speak and share insights so students are exposed to future opportunities
• Getting students involved in community events, service projects, and civic engagement activities
• Creating ongoing programs or clubs that focus on important, timely topics, like social issues, sustainability, and cultural awareness
• Offering guidance so students can learn to identify and pursue personal interests

Practical support for students

Practical support is just as important as any other form of help students get from school. Direct access to resources, planning guidance, and advocacy are all effective ways to help students focus on their growth.

17. Provide tech and materials

Every student should have access to essential technology and supplies. Laptops, chargers, power banks, and Internet access are critical for learning today. Don’t forget about tools for specialized learning needs, like screen readers, speech-to-text devices, and anything else that may be missing in your school. Whether it’s through donation drives, grants, or partnerships with tech companies, finding ways to offer technology and materials is critical.

Some easy ways to do that are:

• Partnering with technology companies for laptop and tablet donations
• Using a schoolwide device loan program, so students can borrow equipment for outside of school learning
• Ensuring access to reliable Internet
• Providing assistive technologies like screen readers, speech-to-text software, and adaptive keyboards
• Regularly auditing the technological needs and gaps in your school so you can redistribute resources as needed
• Using federal and state funding streams, like the E-Rate program, to get devices for students

18. Guide college and career planning

Students need guidance and support as they dream and plan for their future. Every school member has a role here, from educators to administrators to guidance counselors. Students need help to focus on goal setting, résumé writing, job or college search, and exposure to career pathway options. Personalized counseling can increase aspirations, retention, and the likelihood of a student going on to post-secondary education.

Schools can offer college and career planning support by:

• Using college and career readiness lessons in classroom instruction
• Partnering with local organizations and companies to provide career workshops, job shadowing, and internship opportunities
• Using surveys to assess interest and then offer students opportunities to explore options
• Providing ongoing and personalized counseling and coaching
• Getting families involved in both career and college planning
• Creating a personalized academic roadmap with students so you can link coursework to goals

19. Teach time management skills

Many students struggle with time management, but it’s an essential predictor of student success. By integrating instruction that includes core skills such as scheduling, prioritizing, and study habits, students will be less stressed and able to achieve more over time.

Here are some effective strategies you can use to help students build stronger time management skills:

• Teach students to use scheduling tools such as calendars and planners so they can organize tasks and manage deadlines
• Show students how to break large projects down into smaller, more manageable steps
• Use the Pomodoro technique
• Encourage students to prioritize tasks with the Eisenhower Matrix (urgent versus important)
• Emphasize the importance of daily routines and productive habits
• Use apps, browser extensions, and timers to block digital distractions

20. Advocate for students

All students need to know how to make their voices heard and learn to advocate for fair policies and resources. When you openly stand up for students, you can make a system-wide impact on crucial issues, such as student-to-counselor ratios, securing funding for technology, and adding support staff across school settings.

When schools, families, and communities come together to advocate, students gain the support they need to thrive. 

Here are a few ways to make that happen:

• Train educators and school staff on student rights and how to advocate within the school system
• Include families and community organizations to increase awareness and efforts for policy change
• Empower students by encouraging them to use their voice through student councils and advisory boards 
• Get involved in local and state-level efforts that influence education funding legislation and inclusion in schools
• Provide students and school staff with workshops on self-advocacy skills

Provide ongoing support to students with Talkspace

Supporting students with professional mental health resources and school-based efforts ensures they have access to tools and guidance that can change their lives. Meaningful support goes beyond teaching academics or offering short-term interventions. Connecting students to therapy and counseling services, like those offered by Talkspace, provides appropriate and accessible mental health support.

Wrap-around support relies on collaboration between educators, families, and mental health professionals. It’s a holistic approach to supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. If you’re ready to make a real difference in your students’ lives, request a demo from Talkspace today. Discover how ongoing, accessible, and affordable support can create a school environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed. 

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Sources:

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1. “Saga Match - University of Chicago Education Lab.” 2025. University of Chicago Education Lab. July 7, 2025. https://educationlab.uchicago.edu/projects/saga-match/. Accessed September 14, 2025.
2. Wu, Junsheng, and Xin Yu. 2025. “The Influence of Formative Assessment on Academic Performance: Exploring the Role of Teachers’ Emotional Support.” Frontiers in Psychology 16 (April). https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1567615. Accessed September 14, 2025.
3. Zannella, Lesley, and Jessica Sutherland. n.d. “Flexible Deadlines Impact Student Mental Health and Course Engagement: a Mixed Methods Exploratory Study.” Journal of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning 25 (2). https://doi.org/10.14434/josotl.v25i2.36396. Accessed September 14, 2025.
4. U.S. Department of Education, and Miguel A. Cardona. 2021. “Supporting Child and Student Social, Emotional, Behavioral, and Mental Health Needs.” U.S. Department of Education. https://www2.ed.gov/documents/students/supporting-child-student-social-emotional-behavioral-mental-health.pdf. Accessed September 14, 2025.
5. Education Trust. 2019. “School Counselors Matter.” https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/b079d17d-6265-4166-a120-3b1f56077649/School-Counselors-Matter.pdf. Accessed September 14, 2025.
6. Phan, Mary L., Tyler L. Renshaw, Julie Caramanico, Jeffrey M. Greeson, Elizabeth MacKenzie, Zabryna Atkinson-Diaz, Natalie Doppelt, Hungtzu Tai, David S. Mandell, and Heather J. Nuske. 2022. “Mindfulness-Based School Interventions: A Systematic Review of Outcome Evidence Quality by Study Design.” Mindfulness 13 (7): 1591–1613. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-022-01885-9. Accessed September 14, 2025.
7. Vargas-Madriz, Luis Francisco, and Chiaki Konishi. 2021. “The Relationship Between Social Support and Student Academic Involvement: The Mediating Role of School Belonging.” Canadian Journal of School Psychology 36 (4): 290–303. https://doi.org/10.1177/08295735211034713. Accessed September 14, 2025.
8. Le, Huong-Giang, Leeds International Study Centre, Sarin Sok, University of Puthisastra, Kimkong Heng, and Paññāsāstra University of Cambodia. 2024. “The Benefits of Peer Mentoring in Higher Education: Findings From a Systematic Review.” Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. Vol. Issue 31–September 2024. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1447398.pdf. Accessed September 14, 2025.
9. Niemiec, Ryan M., and Ruth Pearce. 2021. “The Practice of Character Strengths: Unifying Definitions, Principles, and Exploration of What’s Soaring, Emerging, and Ripe With Potential in Science and in Practice.” Frontiers in Psychology 11 (January). Whether you’re a school leader, educator, or staff member, you know that every student has a unique story and carries their strengths into the classroom. To help them, you need to understand their stories and celebrate those strengths. . Accessed September 14, 2025.

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