Positive Parenting
Getting Ready For Middle School
Your child has just left their elementary school behind and entered Middle School. What changes can you expect? Physical, social, emotional and academic. In short, new experiences are coming.
In fifth grade, your child probably knew most of the students in their classes. The home learning likely did not require an excessive amount of long-term planning or advanced time-management skills. There’s also a good chance that your child eagerly asked you to volunteer as a chaperon for the end-of-the-year field trip.
Fast-forward to sixth grade. Because most Middle Schools enroll students from a variety of feeder elementary schools, it is possible that your child won’t recognize many of the faces in some classes.
Each subject will be taught in a different classroom, some in different buildings. The amount of home-learning will multiply, and require more complex reasoning and organizational skills. And because these years mark a significant leap toward independence as well as an increased interest in peer relationships, chances are your child won’t be asking you to chaperon any field trips anytime soon.
But don’t panic. While the transition from elementary to middle school can feel overwhelming-for kids and their parents- it is also an incredible time of growth and discovery. There are many things you can do to ease the transition and embrace the many changes that lie ahead.
§ TALK AND LISTEN
You’re not the only one who is wondering what middle school will be like. Your child probably has many questions and perhaps some concerns. Talk with your child and listen, as well. Ask what your child is most excited about or worried about and how you can help. Talking about the experience is the first is the first step in easing the transition. If your child feels apprehensive, assure them that those feelings are normal. Remind your child that while change can be scary, it can also be exciting.
§ BE INFORMED
Your shelves may be lined with books about the physical and emotional life of an elementary school-age child, but much of that information no longer applies. Learn about pre-teen behavior so you can have realistic expectations of your child and develop parenting strategies. Parenting classes offered at your school, universities, community centers, churches and synagogues can provide information and support.
§ PLAN AHEAD
Attend middle school orientation with your child. When your child receives their schedule, walk from class to class together to become familiar with the school. Make sure that your child knows how to find the front office, lunchroom, the bathrooms and the bus stops.
§ PROMOTE RESPONSIBILITY
In middle school, your child will be assuming more responsibilities. They will need to learn their daily schedules, get to their classrooms on time and organize their study time in order to complete projects and assignments. At home, provide supplies and support to assist with organization. Teach your child to use a day planner and find a quiet place to study.
§ BE AVAILABLE
During middle school, children often place greater emphasis on peers than parents. Hang in there and don’t take it personally. Instead, remain involved and available in your child’s life. Find time to talk about the things that are important to your child. Daily activities such as after school snack time or driving home after school can provide an opportunity for you and your child to connect.
§ BE INVOLVED
Research indicates that when parents are actively involved in their child’s education, they do better in school. Plan to get involved in your child’s middle school. While your days of volunteering in the classroom may be over, you can help with a school committee or join the Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA). Get to know your child’s teachers, guidance counselor and friends.
§ SEEK SUPPORT, WHEN INDICATED
If you have concerns about your child’s adjustment to middle school, discuss them with your child’s guidance counselor or healthcare provider.
§ LAUGH WHEN YOU CAN!
While there are many serious issues associated with entering middle school and the “tween” years, there are plenty of joyful ones, too. If you think you’ll be able to laugh about it later, laugh about it now. Try not to sweat the small stuff and don’t expect perfection- in yourself or your child. Enjoy this exciting time!
Excerpted from the Miami Herald June 2004; Debbie Glasser, PhD.
Ms. Suzy Berrios, Dept Chairperson / TRUST Counselor
Mr. Ron Fisch, 6th Grade Counselor
Mr. Thadeus Pinder, 7th Grade Counselor
Ms. Esther Londono, 8th Grade Counselor
Ms. Ileana Betancourt, Career Specialist