School Readiness: Preparing for Middle School

How Can I Help My Child Move From Elementary To Middle School?

Helping your child transition from elementary school, where he or she was familiar with the school environment, can be challenging. Some ways to help your child through this move may include:

• Attending an open house at the middle school
• Meeting with your child’s school guidance counselor
• Exposing your child to a broad range of experiences and programs. Encouraging your child to participate in new programs can help him or her explore new interests.
• Setting ground rules for your child. Make sure your child knows what time to get up, be ready for school, and when to do homework.
• Helping your child get organized. The amount of homework, school work, and after-school activities increases in middle school. Help your child learn good study habits.

Keep Your Child Motivated To Learn And Do Well In And Out Of School

It is important to encourage your child to do his or her best in school and in any outside activities. As a parent you can do this by:

• Showing love. Provide support and encourage your child to develop his or her interests.
• Teaching responsibility. Encourage your child to be responsible for chores, completing homework assignments, taking on community activities, and acknowledging good and bad decisions that he or she has made.
• Being a role model. Show that you value education and exhibit the values and behavior you hope your child will develop.
• Providing your child with a range of experiences.A range of experiences in sports, music, volunteer activities, travel, etc., will allow your child to discover and develop his or her strengths.
• Setting limits. Discuss with your child what TV shows, movies, and video games are appropriate for him or her to watch or play. Be aware of the activities and friendships that your child has.
• Talking to your child. Be aware of what your child is doing. Talk to your child about his or her day, activities, school work, friends, and interests.
• Being aware of potential issues. Know and understand the potential problems or pressures that face your child such as drug use, depression, eating disorders, and poor school performance so that they can be addressed as soon as possible.

Stay Involved In Your Child's School And Other Activities

Your child may need more independence in his or her early teens, but it is still important for you to remain involved and interested in your child’s school and after-school activities.

• Learn about and keep in touch with your child’s school
• Attend school events and volunteer in your child’s school
• Stay aware of your child’s homework and school demands
• Monitor your child’s progress
• Remember your child’s next transition–to high school