While most children are excited about entering middle school, some are apprehensive. And, most parents are more worried about the transition than their children. Here are some important tips to remember as your child is transitioning from elementary school to middle school. Parents want to know what they can do to help ensure the transition is a smooth one for their child(ren).
Reading and math skills are the foundation for future achievement, so make sure these skills are honed. And, while grades are important, middle school is the time to focus on setting up good organizational skills, study habits, and internal motivation. This is also a time to focus on independence in and outside of school. Elementary school helps parents get kids ready for middle school, middle school helps kids get ready for high school. You can help your child develop their independence and organization skills by finding a system for keeping track of assignments, completing assignments and turning in assignments. You can help them develop healthy advocacy and assertiveness skills. And, remember, your children are becoming teenagers, they need support for their social, moral and emotional development just as much as their academic development.
Below are tips you might find helpful:
ACADEMICS
DO:
DON'T:
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL
DO:
DON'T:
STRESS MANAGEMENT
RESOURCES
The Overpressured Student by Richard Weissbourd
Reviving Ophelia by Mary Pipher
Queen Bees and Wannabees by Rosalind Wiseman
Masterminds and Wingmen by Rosalind Wiseman
Why Gender Matters by Leonard Sax
Race to Nowhere