Helping Your Child Transition from Elementary to Middle School
Transitioning from elementary to middle school (or junior high, depending on your child’s school district) can be challenging. Young students are often anxious about the changes they will face and may have some concerns. Being a supportive and understanding figure for your child at this time can help reduce his or her worries. There are several actions you can take to ease your child’s transition.
Visit the School
English classes are held in one area while Math classes are held in another. Other schools are organized by “teams” of teachers who work together with a certain group of students in blocks of classrooms.
Help your child understand the layout of the building and walk to each of their classes with them before the start of the school year. This way, he or she will not be as confused or lost on his or her first day.
Meet the Staff
Find out if your child can meet any of his or her teachers or guidance counselors before the school year starts. Often, staff members are happy to be introduced to students. Be sure to only take a few minutes of their time, as they are very busy preparing for the new year. Seeing familiar faces on the first day of school can be comforting for students.
Sleep Schedule
Most middle schools and junior high schools start earlier than elementary schools. Waking up early may be a challenge for your child at first. To combat this, get your child used to sleeping and waking early approximately two weeks before school starts.
Wardrobe
Make sure your child is comfortable with his or her wardrobe before school starts. This may seem like a minor factor in your child’s transition, but it is important to consider as this can influence his or her self-confidence.
This does not mean that you need to spend a lot of money on new clothing. Go through your child’s wardrobe with him or her. If your child finds that he or she is not comfortable wearing some items, consider handing them down, selling, or donating them. Check back-to-school sales for clothing items your child will feel comfortable in.
Remember, thrift shops and yard or garage sales are also great places to check.
Seek Advice
If any of your friends or family members have a child who is already in middle school, encourage your child to talk to him or her about his or her experience. This way, your child can learn about what it is like to get used to the homework load, make new friends and navigate a new school.
Resources
- National Education Association: www.nea.org
- National Association of School Psychologists: www.nasponline.org
- American Psychology Association: www.apa.org
©2023 ComPsych ® Corporation. All rights reserved. This information is for educational purposes only. It is always important to consult with the appropriate professional on financial, medical, legal, behavioral or other issues. As you read this information, it is your responsibility to make sure that the facts and ideas apply to your situation.