“Your Middle Schooler: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?”

“Your Middle Schooler:  Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?”

One of the most turbulent times in the life of your child (and yours as well!) is during the middle school years.  Middle school children ride a continual wave of emotions as they enter a new type of schooling with schedules and lockers, raging hormones, and sporadic growth spurts.  Crying and yelling at the drop of a hat become much more common as they work to adjust to their changing bodies and attitudes towards their friends, you, and life in general. 

Fortunately, there are some techniques you can use to help your child navigate these tumultuous waters and maintain your sanity.

·         Though it is easier said than done, remain patient with your child.  Remember that this time in your child’s life is a drastic change of emotions and growth, so their behavior may be completely erratic and unpredictable.  Their brains experience many changes during this time period, so do not expect that your child will exercise the same judgment or experience the same emotional responses to situations as you do as an adult. 

·         Your child may feel added insecurities over his or her new body as it changes and adjusts during puberty.  Assure your child that what he or she is experiencing is a normal part of growing up.  Also emphasize that we all experience changes in our bodies at different times; we are not all alike, so help your child to not become frustrated or embarrassed about their physical changes (or lack of changes). Continually remind your child that we have all been there, and life will get better.

·         Encourage your child to talk to you about his or her life.  Sometimes it may be difficult to get your middle schooler to say anything, but don’t give up!  Ask your child specific questions about his day, teachers, friends, and activities.  Ensure your child knows that you are an outlet and will listen.  Work on being open-minded to what your child expresses to you.  When your child knows you are there to listen and be supportive, she will be more apt to talk and share her life with you. 

·         Help your child to explore new interests.  Middle schools introduce many new electives for students to pursue from music and band to art and drama.  Help your child to find his or her niche in sports or extracurricular leadership clubs or service organizations.  Middle school is a time to try out many new experiences, so encourage your child to explore far and wide. 

Though the experience of every middle school child is different, these tips should help you on your way to navigating the muddy waters of adolescence.  Through dedication to your child’s development academically, socially, and personally and with a touch of patience and understanding, you can help your child to be and achieve his or her best through these Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde years.