Middle School Facts for Tweens and Their Parents

If your tween is getting ready to begin middle school, there are a few things both you and your child should know to make the most of the experience. Middle school is truly a transitional period for a child—elementary school is behind them, but high school is a few years off. Expect change during these middle school years and a fair share of challenges and opportunities.

What Parents and Their Tweens Should Know About Middle School

Below are a few middle school facts you should know and prepare for now. That will make the transition between elementary school and high school go a little smoother.

Popularity Matters to Tweens

Parents hope their children won't place too much importance on popularity, but a middle schooler does care about whether or not they are liked and accepted by their peers.

Your child doesn't have to be the most popular kid at school in order to be happy, but they will need a few good friends that your tween can count on through good times and bad.

Get Ready for Dating, Dances, and More

Some tweens may not be ready for dating or even interacting with members of the opposite sex for a few more years, but they are probably in the minority these days. Tweens are eager (sometimes a little too eager) to begin dating, flirting and sadly, even engage in sexual behavior. While many tweens are content with finding a date for the homecoming dance, others may put themselves and others in danger by seeking a sexual partner or partners.

Now is the time for parents to sit down with their children to discuss behavior expectations and family values. Now is not the time to remain passive.

Grades Matter

Your child isn't yet in high school, but grades in middle school do matter to your child and their future educational experience. Many tweens are eligible to take high school courses while still in 7th or 8th grades, and those grades will carry forward and count towards your child's high school GPA. But it's not just GPA that's at risk.

While grades matter, what's even more important is your child's attitude toward learning and developing a strong study ethic. With your help, your tween can develop a study strategy that works with his or her schedule and your family commitments.

Parents Still Matter, But Not as Much

The good news, parents do matter to their tweens, and they matter a lot. The bad news, your child's friends are more important to your tween than they have ever been before. This is normal and is a part of your child's developing independence.

Allow your tween to turn to their friends for advice and support, but be sure that your tween also knows where you stand on important topics. Also, it's OK to give your child the time and space to work through some challenges on their own.

Listen When Your Tween Wants to Talk

If your child is in a talkative mood, be sure to listen. You will learn a lot about your tween's middle school experiences, and about any concerns your tween may have. Take advantage of time in the car or another alone time you may have with your tween.