The transition from middle school to high school is a big one that comes with all manner of exciting but significant change. High school brings heavier workloads, more responsibilities and new challenges. To make the transition smoother, parents can help their middle schooler start prepping now. Here’s how:
Preparing for the Added Responsibilities
With heavier workloads, tighter deadlines and higher expectations, high schoolers must take ownership of their academics. This includes being responsible for their schoolwork, schedules and commitments. Parents can help their middle schooler prepare for the added responsibility by giving them opportunities to take ownership of their learning now. For example, instead of telling them which assignments they have coming up, ask them about the due dates and their progress. Ask them how they will balance the work that needs to be done with their other commitments, like extracurricular activities and chores.
Building Strong Study Habits
High school coursework is more rigorous than the coursework middle schoolers are used to. In order to be successful and stay on pace, students need to have strong study habits they can practice in the classroom and at home. Building these habits can start now. Encourage your middle schooler to find a study routine and approach that works best for them. This includes the type of notes they take in class and how they study them at home. It also includes how long they study and how often they take breaks.
Practicing Time Management
Between schoolwork, extracurricular activities, friendships, household chores and downtime, high schoolers have a lot to balance. This is where time management comes in. Help your middle schooler develop time management skills by encouraging them to use a planner, prioritize tasks based on deadlines, and set aside time for homework and studying that doesn’t interfere with their other commitments. Practicing time management now will make the busy schedules they’ll inevitably have in high school feel much more manageable.
Choosing Classes
High schools usually offer a wider array of classes, both core subjects and electives, and levels, including honors and AP. This gives students the opportunity to explore subjects they enjoy and figure out how much of an academic challenge is appropriate for them. Parents should encourage their middle schooler to speak with their guidance counselor when choosing their high school courses to ensure they’re meeting the required credits for their diploma while staying on track with any additional academic goals they have.
Exploring Interests and Getting Involved
Beyond what they learn in class, high schoolers have many opportunities to explore their interests and develop their skills through clubs, sports, volunteer opportunities and other extracurricular activities. Middle school is the time to begin thinking about what they might want to continue or start exploring in high school. Make sure your child understands that the activities they choose can also be helpful when it comes time to apply for colleges, as extracurricular activities and volunteer hours make for a strong college application.
Encouraging Independence and Self-Advocacy
A huge part of the shift from middle school to high school is gaining more independence and practicing self-advocacy. From speaking up in class when they don’t understand something to emailing a teacher when they need clarification on an assignment, taking ownership also means being able to communicate for themselves. While parents shouldn’t take a backseat role, they should give their child enough space to take the lead when appropriate.
Talking Openly About the Transition
Going into high school is a major transition, and part of being prepared involves having open conversations. There’s much to think about and sort through, so give your child the time and space to work through it with you. Ask them what excites them and what makes them nervous. Have conversations about how it’s normal to be intimidated about going to a new school with a bigger campus and more students. Validate their emotions, letting them know that it’s okay to have mixed feelings. Knowing they can come to you and talk about what’s on their mind gives them a sense of security and encouragement.
As a K-8 preparatory school in Orlando, Lake Forrest Prep is dedicated to providing a solid academic foundation for students, one that helps them prepare for the next grade and life beyond school. Learn more about how we support our middle schoolers by exploring our curriculum and extracurricular activities, or contact us online to schedule a tour.