The importance of good parenting in middle school is often overlooked. Many middle school students suffer from teenage anxiety and depression. Parents can help their children overcome these problems by being there for them in the toughest of times. Parents should encourage their children to be themselves and seek out support when they need it. A strong network of friends and support systems in middle school is an important asset for all students, not just those headed towards college. Here are 10 ways to help your child succeed in middle school:
Attendance is crucial. Back-to-School Night at the beginning of the year is an excellent way for parents to get to know their child’s teachers well and their classroom expectations. Many school administrators will discuss school-wide policies and programs, as well. Be sure to sign up for these groups or attend one yourself!
Parent-teacher conferences are a valuable tool for preteens. They allow teachers to give their students useful information about their classes, homework, and school rules. Parent-teacher conferences are also a chance for parents to make it clear to their kids that their opinions matter in school.
Homework help is invaluable for preteens. Most parents won’t offer this kind of help, but it’s still a gift you can offer. Read over the school’s homework policy with a fine-toothed comb. Are there any special instructions or stipulations? If so, have your preteen or teen gather them up and put them in a binder. Then she can keep them tucked away in her school bag for safekeeping.
Another one of the 10 ways to helping preteens succeed in school is to stay connected to them. This means keeping them in the loop with what’s going on in your family, as well. Do your best to keep mom and dad informed about your child’s activities, both at home and at school. Pay attention when they ask you any questions. Also, don’t be afraid to talk to your son or daughter about school or other subjects. It’s important to support them in any way you can.
Don’t forget your other kids! Middle school is a wonderful time to bring different types of social experiences together as you work toward helping your children succeed in their academic lives. Talk to your younger siblings about how they’re doing in school, and let them know you’re proud of them. Tell older siblings (if you have any) how much they mean to you. Help your kids cultivate these relationships with all their other friends, and you’ll be helping your kid in no time.
Helping your child succeed in school also means being there for him or her to reach her educational goals. Let your kids know you’ll be there for them to set the table, if they need to take a test, or if they need to work on something. Make sure they know to bring the book they just read to you, or ask you when the next assignment is due. Offer to help in other ways, such as writing papers, taking notes, or working with the teacher to figure out ways to make the class process interesting. When you show your support for your middle schoolers, it can show on your face – and that’s what most teachers want.
These days, many parents find themselves working double-duty while raising two young children. Between jobs, raising a family, and school, it can be hard to find some time to sit down and help out with homework. If this is the case for you and your family, consider enlisting the help of professional services that can help you with your kids’ homework. With the assistance of a professional homework service, you can get some help getting through the rough times while still getting your kids their required homework.