Is Middle School Difficult?
Middle school is going to be a little bit of a change academically. Your child might have more homework, and teachers expect middle schoolers to be more responsible about completing homework, keeping up with assignments, and speaking up if something isn’t completely understood. Help your child stay organized and offer tips on how to keep handouts, notes, quizzes, and tests organized for review later. Also, check his homework every now and then to make sure he’s understanding and keeping up with his school work.
Will Other Kids Make Fun of Me?
Middle school can be rough, as any student will tell you. Bullying tends to peak in sixth grade, and few children escape without a run-in or two with a bully, frenemy, or mean girl. You can be proactive by arming your child with knowledge on how to deal with a bully, when to report a problem to an adult, and when to let something slide. Keep your child active in after school activities, so that he can enlarge his circle of friends. Also, know the symptoms of bullying, so you can react quickly and before the situation escalates.
Is There a Lot of Pressure in Middle School?
Even kids in middle school feel the stress and pressure to succeed. Parents and educators continuously remind them to study hard and get good grades so that they will be prepared for high school and get into a good college. As much as you want your child to succeed, it’s also important that he or she enjoys the middle school years and makes the most of the experience. Avoid putting too much pressure on your child about college, and instead, help him develop strong study skills and to do his best. That way, he’ll be prepared for high school when it begins, and for life after high school when that time comes.
Will I Be Offered Drugs or Alcohol?
It’s sad, but your child may be offered drugs, cigarettes, or alcohol at some point during the middle school years. Be open with your child about this potential danger, and offer up tips on how to respond to such a situation. Take advantage of any opportunity to talk about drugs, alcohol, and other risks, and let your child know that he can talk to you about what’s happening at school and with his friends.
Will I Get Asked Out?
There’s no getting past the fact that your child is growing up. Don’t be surprised if one day you find out that your tween is dating someone, or wants to date someone. Dating can produce a lot of anxiety for a preteen. Take advantage of any opportunity to talk with your child about dating, what’s allowed in your family, and what your expectations are. Let your child know that you, too, were anxious about dating and unsure about what to do. Establish an open line of communication, and be there to answer questions about dating and relationships. Help your child understand the difference between healthy relationships and unhealthy ones.
Is Middle School Fun?
The middle school years can be tough, but they can also be a lot of fun. Find out what activities your child’s school offers, and talk about them with your tween. Encourage your child to try something new such as joining a club, or trying out for a sports team or a school play. Some tweens are excited to learn that they can pick one or two of their classes, which isn’t generally offered to elementary school students.
