Our team at Tabernacle Christian School knows that the middle school years are an important time in any child’s life, and they can also be a time that fills parents with worry and anxiety. If you want to help your child take their first steps into independence and ensure that they grow in to a capable adult with a strong moral compass, we encourage you to reach out to our team to learn more about our Christian school and its educational programming. In the meantime, here are a few tips on how to help your child prepare for middle school.
- Go Over New Schedule Expectations. One of the biggest stumbling blocks for students entering middles school is adapting to the new schedule. Many students find changing classes a challenge after spending most of the day with the same teacher in their elementary years, and taking the time to go over their new schedule with them can help them adjust better. Many schools offer a meet-the-teacher day before the start of the academic year, and we recommend attending that event with your child and walking from classroom to classroom as laid out in their schedule as a dry run.
- Prepare Them for Changing Friendships. As kids mature throughout their middle school years, it’s normal for friendships to change dynamics and to make new friends while leaving old ones behind. In addition, let your kids know that it’s okay to walk away from friendships if their friends start treating them badly or pressuring them into things that they aren’t comfortable with or that go against their morals. We believe in raising kids with strong moral compasses, and we want to help you foster your child’s faith and spiritual development.
- Teach Study Skills. One thing we try to do at our middle school is teach essential study skills that will serve our students throughout the rest of their school careers, but if your child’s school isn’t doing this, then you may need to pick up the slack. Help them practice time management skills, teach them how to set study goals, etc.