TIPS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL TRANSITION 

Here are a few tips for parents and caregivers as they navigate their child through the middle school years:

Require an Assignment Notebook 

Many schools give students an assignment notebook or planner at the beginning of the school year. Parents can require their child to record all homework assignments in the planner and then check it. If the school does not provide one, create your own. 

Read Course Syllabi 

Parents should read each course syllabus. This will provide you with information about classroom policies and expectations and will provide a timeline for major projects and assignments. 

Check Homework 

Parents should check to see that homework assignments are being completed in a timely fashion.  

Designate a Study Time and Place 

Work with your child to pick a time and place where school work should be completed each day. If your child does not have a homework assignment, please encourage them to read. Study areas should be free from distractions. 

Create a Study Survival Kit

Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

Communicate with your child's teachers by phone or e-mail. Introduce yourself to each teacher at the beginning of the school year. Provide updated contact information to all teachers. Also, communicate with your middle school child. Although they are growing up and peer relationships may take a higher priority than family relationships, it is important students know that you are available to talk with them and listen when they need you.

Helpful Resources:

http://www.greatschools.net/LD/managing/smoothing-your-childs-transition-to-middle-school.gs?content=980

http://www2.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=2157

http://www.pamf.org/preteen/parents/middleschool.html

http://school.familyeducation.com/learning-disabilities/middle-school/37597.html

http://www.scholastic.com/parents/resources/collection/what-to-expect-grade/making-move-to-middle-school

www.schoolfamily.com/school-family-articles/article/817moving-up-to-middle-school