Counselors Corner
A resource for HMMS families
Summertime Group Opportunity: Transitions Inc.
Thriving through Middle School is a group for kids entering 6th or 7th grade. The group will be an ongoing support and skill building group. We will focus on the core social emotional learning skills: self awareness, self management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision making. Each of these topics will be addressed in the form of relatable topics and difficulties most children experience in their tweens. Examples of weekly topics are social skills, self advocacy, bullying and how to cope with friend group changes.
The group is anticipated to run on Tuesdays from 5pm-6pm at the Norfolk office. Private pay, $25 per group. Ongoing, open group format.
Is THAT my baby?
Parenthood is an incredible journey filled with countless joys, challenges, and transformative experiences. As your child enters the fascinating phase of middle school, you may notice a significant shift in the dynamics of your relationship. This list aims to shed light on these changes, providing insights and guidance to help you better understand and navigate this crucial period.
Communication and Understanding:
Open and honest communication is vital during this stage of your child's development. Actively listen to their thoughts, feelings, and concerns, showing genuine interest and empathy. Be approachable, setting aside quality time for one-on-one conversations (car rides are great for this). Avoid judgment or criticism, instead focusing on collaborative solutions. This approach will strengthen your bond, fostering trust and ensuring that your child feels supported and understood. Remember, when a child thinks something is their idea, rather than yours, they’re more likely to engage in change or reflective thinking.
Peer Influence and Social Dynamics:
The influence of peers becomes increasingly significant during the middle school years. Your child will seek acceptance and validation from their friends, often placing a higher value on their opinions than yours. This shift does not imply a diminishing role as a parent; rather, it highlights the importance of maintaining a strong, trusting bond. Encourage positive friendships, facilitate social interactions, and engage in conversations about healthy relationships, helping your child navigate the complexities of social dynamics. Don’t be too upset if they don’t want to “hang” in public with you, but if they do (silent cheer!), let them lead and don’t put pressure on the outing.
Embracing Physical and Emotional Transformation:
Middle school marks the onset of puberty, and as your child undergoes significant physical and emotional changes, their needs and perspectives will also evolve. Understanding and empathizing with their newfound self-consciousness, mood swings, and desire for independence is crucial. Encourage open communication and provide a supportive environment to help them navigate this transformative phase with confidence. It doesn’t hurt to have a variety of health products on hand, in a known and easily accessible spot.
Academic and Personal Challenges:
Middle school brings a host of new academic and personal challenges. The workload becomes more demanding, and your child may experience stress, anxiety, or struggles with time management. Be their support, providing encouragement, and helping them develop effective study habits. Foster a growth mindset, emphasizing the value of effort and resilience over mere grades. Encourage extracurricular activities that align with their interests, helping them find a healthy balance between academics and personal pursuits. Remind your child the power of “yet”. When struggling, help your child change “I can’t do it” into “I haven’t done it yet..” to foster a growth mindset. Make sure your child hears you say it about things you haven’t done “yet” to normalize the struggle.
Middle school represents a transformative phase in your child's life, filled with unique challenges and opportunities. By understanding the changes in your relationship dynamics, embracing their evolving needs, and fostering open communication, you can navigate this journey together. Cherish the moments, celebrate their growth, and continue to provide a nurturing environment that supports their development into confident and resilient young adults. Remember, your unwavering love and guidance will remain their most powerful ally as they navigate the path to adulthood.
Podcast Recommendations
Hot Podcasts to listen to this summer-topics include increasing positive behavior at home, teaching money management skills to kids/teens, handling difficult conversations with kids and so much more!
Alison Castro, HMMS Counselor
Email: castroa@franklinps.net
Website: https://www.franklinps.net/horacemann