Helping Children Thrive in Middle School

“What is the most important thing one learns in school? Self-esteem, support, and friendship.”

After completing elementary school, middle school is the next step, and an exciting one at that! Children will be entering a whole new world of education and sometimes a different environment with new rules and expectations.

Starting middle school can be a daunting experience for both parents and children. For parents, it can be hard to let go and trust that their child is now capable of handling more independence. For children, it can be tough to leave the comfort and familiarity of elementary school and start navigating new educational experiences and social waters. 

Middle school can be an intimidating time and very exciting too! It’s the first step toward growth and change.

With the right preparation, middle school can be a great experience for your child. Here are some tips for making the transition as smooth as possible for everyone involved. 

Talk to Your Child About What to Expect

Before middle school even starts, sit down with your child and discuss what the transition will entail. Go over things like a new daily routine, larger class sizes, lockers (if they are getting one), and different types of classes. Reassure them that you will be there to help them every step of the way and that middle school is a great opportunity to learn new things and build stronger friendships.

Get Involved In The School

Once middle school starts, take some time to get to know the staff and faculty, your child’s needs for school, and where classes are situated. Attend parent-teacher conferences and open houses. Get involved in the PTO or other school organizations. Research shows that the more you show that you care about your child’s education, the more invested they will be in their own success.

Encourage Independence

As tempting as it may be to do everything for your middle schooler, it’s important to encourage them to take on more responsibility and gain independence. Help them to develop time management and organizational skills. Allow them to solve their own problems whenever possible. This will not only prepare them for high school and beyond, but it will also allow them to use their critical thinking skills! 

Lastly, another way to prepare for middle school is to instill good habits. Some students struggle in middle school because they were not used to having so much homework or being away from home for that many hours. However, if children can develop these good habits now, it will be easier for them to stick with them during middle school and beyond: 

Here are a few ways to get ready for your first weeks of middle school:

• First, it is important to get enough sleep.
• Second, eat a healthy breakfast every day. 
• Third, establish a homework routine and stick to it. 
• Fourth, find a time each day to relax and disconnect from work. 
• Fifth, make friends with people who have similar interests. 
• Sixth, join extracurricular activities that interest you. 
• Seventh, stay positive and believe in yourself! 

These are just a few of the habits that can help middle schoolers be successful in school. By establishing these early on, your child will be well on their way to academic success! 

Learn more about Middle School at BES!