By Vicki Kirkman, LCSW, LCAC – August 1, 2024 –

The transition to middle school can be an intimidating yet exciting time for both students and parents. During a time when young adolescents are gaining independence and facing more responsibilities, it is vital that parents stay involved and continue to nurture the child-parent bond.

In preparation for this important milestone, there are several ways to help your student feel prepared and have success.

Ask your child their thoughts about preparing for middle school. Questions like, “What are you most excited about?” “Is there anything you want to know more about before you start school?” and “Do you have any worries about middle school?” can help you understand more about how your child is feeling.

Take time to physically scope out the location of the school. Many area schools host visits prior to school starting, so your child may have already visited during their last few months of elementary school. Be sure to follow up on that visit and ask your child how they felt about meeting the new staff and being in the school building.  If your child did not participate in a visit, ask to tour the building before school starts.

Talk with your child about the many changes middle school will bring. Middle school students have to learn how to navigate different classrooms/teachers throughout the school day. Often, buildings are bigger and the length of passing periods will limit how much time your child has between classes. Help them learn how to manage their time so they can have bathroom breaks, get water, or visit with friends and still be on time to class.

Time management is also important when students have more classes in middle school. Teaching your child how to make “to do” lists, organize their school material, and plan their day so they can manage classes and other afterschool activities can set them up for success.

Encourage your child to take advantage of all that middle school has to offer. Afterschool activities or clubs, sports, or new areas of interest like band or choir can provide a way for your child to meet new people and have new experiences. Keep them connected to activities outside of school too, such as volunteer opportunities, faith-based activities, or commitments that are important to your family.

Discuss characteristics that your child thinks are important to look for when keeping and making new friends. Adolescents at this age start to really value and rely on their peer relationships. Talking about values and behaviors that are important to your child will help encourage healthy friendships.

Keep open communication with your child about their growth and development. Their bodies and emotions are changing rapidly and it’s important for them to understand what is normal and how to manage the challenges that come along with puberty. Stay up to date with appointments with their primary care doctor and dentist for good health. Model and encourage good stress management and coping skills. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising, and engaging in fun activities are habits they can develop and use their whole life.

Identify professionals in the building that can help if your student is feeling overwhelmed or needs extra support. Identify a teacher, counselor, school social worker, school nurse or other administrators as go-to people if your child needs assistance. Ask for help if more specialized support is needed. School social workers and counselors can provide ideas and referrals if community resources are needed for the student and family.

Lastly, stay engaged in your child’s education. Attend school events, sign up and read communications from the school, utilize email to stay in touch with teachers, and ask your child open-ended questions about how their day went to stay informed. If you stay attentive and involved, your middle school student will be set up for success.