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Understand the complexities of middle school years and learn how to support your child through physical, emotional, and social changes. Discover strategies to help them navigate friendships, worries, and overall development. Empower your child to thrive in this transformative phase of life.
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Intro. Activity • Describe your middle school experience in one word. • Describe your middle-schooler in one word. • Describe the ideal experience you would like your middle-schooler to have at your middle school, in one word.
Changes for Middle School Students • Physical • Intellectual • Emotional • Social
What to Expect Forgetting: • Out of sight, out of mind • How do you help? • Understanding • Utilize creative reminders • Some support
Irritability • Hormones • Moodiness • Don’t let them determine your mood
Have little power in their lives Fluctuate between adult and kid Similarities between 6th graders and 2 year olds Power Plays
Power Plays (cont.) • Try to exert control whenever possible (eye roll, short answers, whatever you hate) • Pick your Battles • Disengage/cannot reason • Give power, choices when possible
Friendships • Kids change in middle school/so do friends • Self worth defined by peer group • Detach some from family • Secrecy – be willing to investigate • Independence – still set boundaries • Be sensitive to child’s concerns • Friends change DAILY
Worries of Middle School Students • People liking them • Need to belong/feel connected • Need a safe place – home • Children mature at different rates • Friends may influence your child’s mood
How do you survive? Find a balance between being an active/involved parent and allowing your child to be an independent child.
NMSA Research Summary (www.nmsa.org) Seven Key Developmental Needs • Positive social interaction with adults & peers • Structure & clear limits • Physical Activities • Creative Expression • Competence & Achievement • Meaningful participation in families, schools • Communities, opportunities for self-definition
Every child wants the following: • To believe in themselves • To be liked and respected • Physical exercise and freedom to move • Want life to be just As a parent, you can be important in encouraging and supporting these in your son or daughter.