How to help your child transition to middle school.

Starting middle school is scary! Sixth graders worry about all kinds of things. Here are a few things parents can do to help.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• School map.
• Locker assignment.
• Class schedule.
• Student handbook.
• Lots of patience!

1. Encourage your child to talk about starting middle school. Keep it casual. You will learn more by listening than interrogating.

2. Once you know the child's concerns, you need a plan. Decide what you can help with, (and what you can't)

3. Walk through the school with your child before opening day. Find their locker and practice unlocking it. Help them find their classrooms, the cafeteria, the school office and the gym.

4. Read the student handbook with your child. They need to know the rules. There's always a new student orientation. It's probably open to parents. Go! You need to know what to expect as much as your child does.

5. Be positive! Make starting middle school an adventure! Help them decorate their lockers, (if allowed). Get them to talk about all of the new things they will experience: sports, extracurricular activities, school events. I think every child can benefit from participating in one or two school activities.

Tips & Warnings

• Monitor your's child's homework and grades.
• Call their teachers periodically.
• Ask them about the school day. (Even though you may get little information, they need to know your' re interested.
• Know who their friends are and get to know their parents. It can prevent all kinds of problems!

[jull14]

on 1/28/2009 Great information. My son is going to middle school now and I am trying to get him ready for this, thanks