Understanding Your Middle Schooler

Middle school can be a confusing time for your children.

They’re experiencing physical changes. Their bodies flood with hormones, which leads to physical growth (some kids grow several inches during this time), hair development in private places, and skin changes: pimples, body odor, etc.

On top of all of that, school can be socially exhausting. They’re surrounded by peers they didn’t choose, and everyone is changing as quickly as they are. It’s a confusing environment within which your child is struggling to discover his or her identity.

Not only can middle school be a confusing time for your children, it can be a confusing time for you as well. The challenge you’ll face in helping your child navigate these formative years is to strike a delicate balance. Back off too much, and you’ll leave them drifting and alone. Lean in too hard, and you’ll embarrass them or push them away. Balance entails leaning in to your child enough to take his or her problems seriously while relaxing your grip enough that you don’t force solutions too quickly.

If you’re wondering how to balance these two tasks, I’m joined on Focus on the Family with Jim Daly by Cynthia Tobias and Sue Acuna, both former teachers and experts on helping children transition into their middle school years.

They share:

• The three basic needs of middle schoolers.

• Guidance on establishing boundaries for your child’s friendships and screentime.

• How to help your children navigate emotional challenges.

• Warning signs that your child is experiencing bullying.

• Important life conversations to have with your child.

• Ten common mistakes when talking to your child.

• Helping your child grow in his or her faith.

• Managing your child’s stress while transitioning from elementary to middle school.

Hear our full conversation on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, or take us with you on our free phone app.

Cynthia Tobias and Sue Acuna’s book (published with Focus on the Family) Middle School: The Inside Story: What Kids Tell Us, But Don’t Tell You is available for a gift of any amount. For more information, click here or call 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).

While you’re online, why not take our free parenting assessment? It will quickly give you an overview of how your family is doing in several key areas. It also offers suggestions for improving the relationships in your home.