Making a Smooth Transition from Elementary to Middle School

Be upbeat about what lies ahead.

 

Focus on the positive aspects of middle school:

• A chance to meet new people.
• A chance to grow into a young adult.
• A chance to learn about many different subjects.
  
  

Recognize their fears of:

• They'll not be able to open their lockers
• They'll forget which class they are supposed to go to
• They are insecure about making mistakes

Give your child strategies:

• Practice with combination locks over summer
• Tape schedule to the inside of their planner/binder

 

Tools to succeed:

• Develop a daily routine
• An area for homework that is free from distractions
• Academic planner-are they using it?
• Help them to organize themselves - sort through papers
• Lay out backpack & clothes the night before

 

Physical symptoms of anxiety:

• Stomach aches/headaches
• Wanting to call home due to sickness
• Irritability
• Change in emotions

 

Hold your child accountable

• Your child is responsible for getting to classes on time
• They are responsible for their grades and for completing homework assignments
• Allow them the freedom to make mistakes Know that they will make mistakes. Expect it. (Talk to Mrs. Frelich about Brain Research)