Middle School Article Archive

Practical advice for a broad range of issues that come up in middle school: staying safe on the Internet, teaching your child to be self reliant, kids at home alone, getting your kids organized, and more.

• Coming Soon to Your School: Common Core State StandardsThe Common Core State Standards are likely to be implemented at your school, possibly this year. Forty-five states have adopted the national educational standards. Here’s a Common Core primer on what to expect your kids will be learning.
• 12 Ways To Help Your Child Love the LibraryHave you and your child been to your local library lately? In addition to wonderful books, today’s libraries offer multimedia options, community events, fun activities, and more—and all for free.
• Helping Kids Cope With the Death of a PetThe death of a beloved family pet can elicit varied reactions in children depending on their age and what else may be going on in their lives. Allowing children to discuss their feelings of grief and talk about the pet is something parents should encourage.
• 6 Childhood Illnesses That Are Icky, Gross, and Disgusting (but Harmless)They’re unpleasant but exceedingly common. We’re talking about head lice, ringworm, and other “icky” childhood illnesses that are more repugnant than harmful. Here’s how to handle them...and the “yuck” factor.
• 8 Back-to-School Family TraditionsCreating back-to-school memories for your children can be simple or elaborate. The tradition doesn’t matter; what does is easing them back with a special memory.
• Handwritten Thank-You Notes Offer Many Ways To LearnParents can add humor—and math and history learning—to this task, which is one that most children initially resist.
• Instill a Love of Learning in Your ChildTo encourage curiosity and a passion for learning in your child, discuss things you’re interested in, show her real-world examples, and don’t forget to take her lead.
• Today’s Multitasking TeensToday’s teens spend seven-plus hours a day involved with some type of technology or media—including time when they’re studying or doing homework. A researcher specializing in teens and media offers tips for parents to help kids disconnect and focus.
• 6 Tips To Help Kids Develop a Positive Body ImageChildren develop a body image of themselves, positive or negative, as early as age 8. Here’s what parents should know about how that “snapshot” is formed, and six tips from child experts on how to improve your child’s self-image.
• College Prep Guide: Middle SchoolWhile the middle school years are still too early to be picking a specific school to attend, it’s the perfect time to start talking about what it takes to reach that goal.
• The Road to College: A Guide to Helping Your Child Find the Right SchoolSchoolFamily.com’s College Prep Guide will help your family navigate the years leading up to college applications and enrollment decisions with less stress.
• Tips for Raising a ReaderSome kids live to read; others won't go near books without being prodded. Our experts offer ideas to encourage children of all ages, and interest levels, to read.
• Fun Summer Reads for Ages 4 to 18Looking for some good summer reads for your kids? These books, which we've sorted by age (4-8; 9-12; 13-18), are so much fun, kids will dive right in!
• Educational Games for Family VacationsIt’s important to keep kids’ minds active during school vacations. These fun activities are designed to help kids learn during your family vacation, whatever time of year it is and wherever your destination may be.
• Help Middle Schoolers Manage Their HomeworkMiddle school students have a lot of homework assignments to keep track of. Here’s how to help your child stay on top of that work without a fight.
• Help Your Child Reduce Test StressIt’s normal for kids to worry about tests, but worrying too much can be bad for kids and their grades. Here’s how to tell if your child has text anxiety and what you can do about it.
• Middle School Study Skills: Getting OrganizedHelp your middle schooler learn the skills she needs to stay on top of homework.
• Dealing With Disappointing GradesMost kids bring home a bad report card at least once. Here’s how you can help your child get back on track.
• How To Interpret Report CardsNeed help understanding your child’s report card? We explain the most common grading systems from A to Z.
• Help Your Child Build Writing SkillsParents can help by encouraging their children to embrace the concept of revision. Through reviewing and revising, kids will soon see their writing improve.
• Help Your Gifted Child Succeed in SchoolHow to tell whether your child is gifted, plus ways to make school more meaningful for him.
• Help Your Autistic Child Succeed in SchoolHow to work with the school to improve education and school life for your autistic child.
• Managing Stress in Middle SchoolMiddle school kids often worry about interactions with peers and their school performance.
• Grade by Grade, What Kids Are LearningStandards vary from state to state, but here’s a general look at what kids will be taught at each grade level.
• Understanding Grades and GradingHow you react to grades can affect your child’s success in school. It’s important to know what they represent—and what they don’t.
• Help Your Child Adjust SociallyFinding the right niche can help your child feel happier at school.
• Here’s How To Get Teens To Help You Around the HouseWhen kids are old enough to really help around the house, they become teenagers and don’t want to help.
• Give Your Teenager Some Responsibility This HolidaySet aside time to talk about your family’s holiday plans.
• Do These Three Things After A Good Or Bad Report CardWhen we think about student report cards, we are usually concerned about how to handle bad grades.
• Is Your Teen a Troubled Reader? Watch for SignsA reading problem is the source of many school problems.
• Teachers Want Student ParticipationThe older kids get, the more their teachers want to hear from them.
• Help Your Teenager Develop Responsible HabitsSometimes, the best way to teach a teen responsibility is to help her develop good habits.
• Let Your Child Learn From the Consequences of Her ActionsLet kids learn from natural consequences.
• TV Log Can Increase Student Awareness and ResponsibilityA recent study found that eighth graders spent four times as many hours each week watching television as they did studying.
• Calm Talk, Agreeing on Home Chores Can Work WondersHelping teens build a sense of personal responsibility is one of the most important things parents can do.
• You Can Teach Your Teen Positive Financial HabitsThere are four days before your teen’s allowance is due but she’s asking for a loan to carry her through.
• You Can Teach Your Teen How To Manage Time EffectivelyThe most successful students learn how to manage their time effectively.
• Are You Raising a Child Who Is a Self-Manager?Kids who do well in school are usually self-managers.
• 10 Ways To Help Your Child Deal With Peer PressureTangible ways to help your child cope with peer pressure.
• Break Down Large Goals Into Short-Term Goals for SuccessHow managing long-term goals starts with managing short-term goals.
• Dealing with the Tough Issues . . . Popularity and Friendship ProblemsSome children have no problems making friends.
• Successful Students Know That Good Listening Aids LearningMost kids are visual learners. They learn by watching, reading and writing.
• Have Middle Schoolers Read About What Interests ThemBy middle school, most children are competent readers.
• Be Clear, Consistent When You Assign Chores to Your ChildSometimes giving children chores can feel like a chore.
• Simple Activities To Build Interest in ScienceIf your middle schooler tells you science is boring, conduct an experiment of your own.
• Recommended Reads That Build an Interest in ScienceYour child can learn more about science while reading for pleasure. Many books that middle schoolers might enjoy have scientific themes or content.
• Alter Your Parenting Style During Middle School YearsHelp your middle schooler become more independent.
• Offer Guidance To Prevent Future CheatingMiddle school is a time when students are at risk of cheating.
• Try ‘Waging War’ Against The TelevisionGetting kids to read more usually means getting them to turn off the TV.
• Arm Your Teen With a Big Dose of Self-EsteemArm your teen with the self-esteem that will carry her through tough times.
• Adolescence Is a Critical Time To Help Girls Build Self-EsteemHow parents can help their daughters retain their sense of themselves.
• Combat Peer Pressure; Arm Your Teen With Self-EsteemExperts agree that children who lack self-esteem can’t stand up as well to peer pressure.
• Teach Your Child To Be Responsible Managing MoneyTeach your child to be responsible about money now, and you’ll be giving him tools to make smart financial decisions later.
• Routine Is the Backbone for Nurturing IndependenceEssential to getting kids to be responsible is establishing a routine.
• ‘Do Cards’ and ‘Do Lists’ Help Middlers Keep Track of TasksHelp adolescents keep track of "to dos."
• Students Who Don’t Give Up Achieve Academic SuccessFew qualities will serve your child better than sticking to a job until she has done her best.
• Learning How To Make Good Choices Teaches ResponsibilityA person becomes responsible when she learns to decide for herself what’s right.
• Help Disorganized Students by Planning, Setting Up RoutinesSpecific strategies to get your middle schooler organized.
• Neatness Can Help Your Child Improve Grades in SchoolChecklist for improving homework neatness.
• Help Your Child Identify Role Models, Set Goals for FutureTeach your child that responsibility contains two words—respond and ability.
• Teach Your Middle Schooler To Keep Study Areas OrganizedTips to keep study areas organized.
• Teach Your Middle Schooler the Importance of Being on TimeThe downside of allowing your child to be late to school.
• Middle Schoolers Are Ready To Take on More ResponsibilityNot only are chores wonderful for teaching your child responsibility, they also help keep the household running.
• Follow State Guidelines if Your Child Is Home AloneDeciding if your child is ready to stay home alone.
• Introduce Your Middle School Student to the Art of CookingIf you haven’t already, now is the time to acquaint your child with “kitchen duty."
• Help Your Child Do Homework IndependentlyBy middle school, children should be able to do most of their homework on their own.
• Checkpoint System Ensures Student Success at SchoolTips to help school success.
• Overcome ‘Stage Fright’ With a Dose Of Self-EsteemHere are some ways teens can overcome stage fright.
• A ‘Personal Success Portfolio’ Displays Your Teen’s TalentsBefore teens can make choices about the future, they must look over the past and evaluate the most important events, experiences, and decisions in their lives.
• Build Your Teen’s Self-Esteem With These Acts of LoveThere are hundreds of ways to tell a teen, “I love you,” without saying those words.
• World Food Day Encourages Teens To Take ActionHelp your teen get involved in a community service project.
• Help Teens With Learning Disabilities Build Self-EsteemWhat parents of children with learning disabilities can do to make sure these children develop a positive sense of themselves.
• Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety About SchoolworkThe greater demands of middle school can cause many children to become anxious.
• Allow Independence, But Encourage the Buddy SystemMost middle school students want to “bring a friend” everywhere they go.
• Talk About Safety Issues With Your Middle SchoolerSchools today take extra steps to keep kids safe. But they need parents’ help.
• Talk to Your Middle Schooler About Safety ConcernsMiddle school children are becoming more independent.
• Middle Schoolers Still Need Help With ProblemsYour child’s grade in a subject plummets. He never has homework . . . or has trouble with assignments. He’s afraid to go to school.
• 12 Things That Will Affect a Middle Schooler's GradesShare these tips with your middle school child to help her get better grades.
• Self-Esteem Is Key to Success; Help Your Teen Develop ItChildren with high self-esteem do better in school.
• Show Your Adolescent How To Become a Real InventorInventing something can help people feel good about themselves.
• Allow Your Child To Make, Learn From MistakesWatching a child fail at something she attempts can be painful.
• Complaining About Teachers is Normal in Middle School Years“Don’t jump in at the first sign of trouble,” cautions noted child development expert Lawrence Kutner.
• Encourage Middle Schoolers To Stick With CommitmentsYour child probably can’t devote time to an array of activities and still do her best in school.
• Encourage your child to set goals for the futureSetting goals will help your child accomplish long-term tasks.
• Help Your Middle Schooler Think About the Future NowMiddle school is a time when kids focus on the present.
• Help Your Middle Schooler Learn the Value of MoneyTeach your kids that money doesn't simply come from an ATM.
• Help Your Underachieving Middle Schooler ImproveThe end of the school year is near. Is your middle schooler still not making the grades?
• Make Sure Your Middle Schooler Is Academically FitSchools across the nation are raising their academic standards.
• More Privacy Helps Children Grow Up, Do Better in SchoolAs kids grow older, their need for privacy increases.
• Parents Should Hold High Expectations for AdolescentsNow that your child is a preteen or teen, should you expect him to become moody and rebellious?
• Parents Who Monitor Children Influence Behavior & GradesNow that your child is in middle school, you don’t need to hover over her every minute.
• Schedule Time to Review Goals, Expectations With Your ChildThe end of the calendar year is a good time to review your goals and expectations for your child.
• Semester’s End is A Good Time to Review, Set GoalsSet aside some time to review the first semester of the school year with your child.
• Show Your Middle Schooler How to Start the Year Off RightFew middle schoolers know how to set goals on their own.
• Support and Prepare Your Child For Babysitting ResponsibilitiesIf you know families with young children, your middle schooler may be asked to babysit.
• Talk About Your Expectations At Regular Family MeetingsYou want your middle schooler to meet your expectations.
• Teenage Girls Often Have Low Self-Esteem; What Can You Do?Several studies have shown that during middle and high school, girls begin to question their abilities and lose their sense of self-esteem.
• To promote learning, don’t interrupt the school dayForging a strong parent-school relationship means more than just joining the PTA.
• ‘Cued’ Paper Can Help Your Preteen Take Better NotesTaking notes is an important skill for middle schoolers.
• ‘What If’ Game Can Help Your Child Make DecisionsAs children grow older, they get to make more decisions.
• Help Your Child Use Five Steps for Making DecisionsSteps to helping your child learn to make decisions.
• Give Children Advice So They Can Solve Their Own ProblemsIt’s hard to take a “hands off” attitude when kids are making less-than-perfect decisions.
• Steer Your Child in the Direction of CollegeParents and schools must work together to convince students to work harder in school
• Children Who Make Decisions Also Learn to Be ResponsibleAt this stage, it is very important that your child decide some things for herself.
• Encourage Children To Listen to Their Inner Voices Before ActingThe ability to think things through is critical to good decision making.
• Help Your Child Get Back On Track With SchoolworkEven students who never had problems in elementary school may seem to struggle in the middle school years.
• Asking What and Why Focuses Middle Schoolers' LearningChildren need to understand what they’re doing in school and why.
• Ask Your Child To Be Your "Reference Librarian"Here’s a great way to teach your kids how to look for information.
• Encourage Middle Schoolers To Write Letters to the EditorIt could be about the environment. It could even be about money for a new school building.
• Ask Questions That Get Your Child Thinking About FriendsParents often worry about who their child’s friends are.
• Organization Is Key to Success for Middle SchoolersOrganization is critical in middle school.
• Find Out Why Your Preteen Is Procrastinating, Find a SolutionPutting things off until the last minute is an easy habit to fall into.
• Help Preteens Stay Strong When Peers Put Pressure OnPeer pressure is a real concern for parents, and it should be.
• Peer Pressure Can Often Be More Positive Than NegativePeer pressure has a bad name.
• "Concentration" Can Help Middle Schoolers LearnDo your children have trouble with geography, history, or other subjects where they must memorize facts?
• Controlled Choices Will Allow Your Child to Make DecisionsNow that your child is in middle school, nearly every decision should be based on his choice.
• Effort, persistence contribute to success in middle schoolBy the time children get to middle school, they know who the so-called “smart kids” are supposed to be.
• Encourage Middle Schoolers to Stick With Favorite ActivitiesSometime in middle school, your child may tell you he wants to quit an activity you thought he loved.
• Help Your Child Be an Achiever This School YearMiddle school is a time for students to develop strategies that lead to success.
• Help Your Child Find Ways to Keep Busy Over the SummerKids who don’t have enough to do often do things they shouldn’t, especially when they’re unsupervised, as many are during summer vacation.
• Help Your Middle Schooler Establish Strong Study SkillsMiddle school demands the best study skills in order to succeed.
• Let Your Middle Schooler Make Some Decisions for the FamilyHow to teach your middle schooler about good choices.
• Preteens Are Ready to Figure Out Some Things on Their OwnHow to shift decision making on to your child.
• Stress Kindness, Courtesy & Other Positive ValuesIf your child shows upright character, she helps to make her school a better place to learn.
• Let Conscience Guide Your Child When Making DecisionsPeople of good character are usually aware of their conscience, and act on it.
• Make Sure Children Are Ready To Be Left in the House AloneGenerally, experts say middle schoolers are ready to be home alone.
• Community Service Programs Promote Fun and LearningStudies show that children who participate in community service have better grades and more interest in school than those who don’t.
• Schools Rely on Parents to Build Their Children’s CharacterHow to build character in your child.
• Friendship Skills Are Survival Skills for Middle SchoolersIn middle school, friendships become especially important to kids.
• Teach Your Preteen To Value Compassion Over PopularityBeing popular might be more important to your child than you think.
• Parents Can Help Ease the Pain of Feeling UnpopularToday, popularity is just as important to kids as it was in the past. And when a child feels unpopular, it’s painful. Here are some ways you can help.  
• Having a Collection Boosts Academics and Self-EsteemStarting or keeping a collection is a great after-school activity for your child.
• Look for Educational After-School Programs in Your TownMany towns do have places for children to spend safe time after school.
• Provide Nutritious Snacks for After-School Study SessionsChances are, the refrigerator is your middle schooler’s first stop upon walking through the door after school.
• Ways To Help Your Middle Schooler Succeed in MathEven if you can, it’s not a good idea to try to “reteach” your child what he doesn’t get in math class.
• Don’t Forget To Boost Your Child’s Esteem This SummerTo feel good about himself, he needs your encouragement, acceptance and approval.
• Make Sure You Set a Good Example Against Peer PressureMiddle schoolers are known for “going with the crowd." Even when doing so goes against their parents’ rules and values.
• It’s Not Too Early for Parents to Help Prevent Eating DisordersMany parents don’t worry about eating disorders until their children reach high school.
• Help Your Child Get Over Hurt FeelingsSome days, your child may feel as though you are the only friend she has. That’s especially true if members of a clique are teasing her or rejecting her.
• Help Your Middle Schooler AdjustStarting at a new school, especially in the middle grades, can be tough.
• Encourage Your Child to Be Fit, Active During Teen YearsThe middle school years can set the stage for a healthy body later in life.
• Middle Schoolers Need More Sleep To Do Better in SchoolThe older kids get, the later parents let them stay up.
• Attending School Will Help Your Child Avoid TroubleYour child’s education can open a world of possibilities, but walking through the school door is the first step.
• Understanding the Value of Things Teaches AppreciationAppreciation is a quality that must be nurtured in children.
• Show Your Child You Love Him Many Ways on Valentine’s DayThis Valentine’s Day and beyond, make sure your child hears your “I love you” message loud and clear.
• Boost Self-Confidence, Help Your Child Focus on the PositiveHow to help your child see herself as a person of value.
• Parents Can Protect Middle Schoolers’ Fragile Self-EsteemThings you can do to help your child through the turbulent middle school years.
• Middle School Math MythbustersSchools and community groups have made a real effort to encourage more students to take math each year.
• Help Your Child Cope With the Middle School Social SceneSo many changes are happening during middle school that even the best adjusted children can feel disoriented.
• Help Your Child Find a Good System for Taking Class NotesThere is no substitute for taking good notes.
• Help Your Middle Schooler Cope With Adolescent StressDid you have a stressful day? Well, you’re not the only one. Middle school isn’t exactly a carefree experience, so there’s a good chance your child gets stressed-out, too.
• Help Your Middle Schooler Get a Little Better OrganizedIs your middle schooler a little disorganized? If so, she’s normal.
• Help Your Middle Schooler Get Off to a Good Start This YearIt’s a new school year, and middle schoolers need help starting off on the right foot.
• Help Your Middle Schooler Rise Above Worry & AnxietyYoung adolescents are often self-centered. They are preoccupied with their own worries and insecurities.
• Help Your Middle Schooler To Get a Little More OrganizedHow often does your child say things like, “Where’s my soccer uniform? or “I can’t find my homework!”
• Kids Can Manage Anxieties With Goals and OrganizationMiddle schoolers have lots of worries.
• Learning Disabled Children Can Find Strategies for SuccessMichael J. Fox, Cher, Jewel, Danny Glover—all had a learning disability. But they didn’t let it keep them from reaching the top.
• Learning Disorders Can Be Diagnosed In Middle SchoolExperts say that middle school is a time when learning disorders can seriously hurt school performance.
• Tell Adolescent Girls They Don’t Have To Be PerfectBy the time they reach middle school, many girls have received a harmful message about a need for perfection.
• Organization Helps Children Avoid Being OverwhelmedOne word that can sum up the transition from elementary to middle school is more.
• Motivate your middle schooler during the mid-year doldrumsIt’s normal to fall into a rut once in a while, but you don’t want your child making a habit of it.
• Making Lists Can Help Keep Your Child’s Memory SharpOnce, you had a child with a razor-sharp memory.
• It’s Natural for Your Middle Schooler to Be ForgetfulOne day your preteen locks herself out of the house. The next, she leaves her homework at home. What’s going on?
• Eating Breakfast Improves Behavior, Problem-SolvingThe older children get, the harder it is to get them to eat breakfast.
• Extracurricular Activities Are Fun, But Set Limits, PrioritiesA whole new world of activities, sports and clubs often opens up once a child reaches middle school.
• Help Middle Schoolers Bounce Back From DisappointmentsHow to help your child take disappointments in stride.
• Help Your Child Get Organized For a Successful School YearKids in middle school can be smart. They can work hard. Yet they can still fail.
• Help Your Child Recognize Strengths, Boost ConfidenceKids who do poorly in school usually have low self-esteem.
• High Self-Esteem Can Help Children Face Peer PressureDuring middle school, it’s normal for kids to be self-conscious.
• Investment Game Teaches Important SkillsNearly every middle schooler is interested in making money.
• Keep Your Child Out of Trouble During the After-School HoursThe hours from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. are a problem for many working parents.
• Make Sure Your Middle Schooler Keeps ActiveToo many kids today are overweight and out-of-shape, because they don’t get the exercise they need.
• Middle Schoolers Can See the Value of VolunteeringIf your child hasn’t already become involved in volunteer activities, middle school is a good time to start.
• Parents Can Help Middle Schoolers Feel More PowerfulMiddle schoolers may long to be independent, but they depend on their parents for almost everything.
• Start Planning a Fun, Enriching Summer With Your Child NowApril is a good month for you and your child to sit down and talk about how she will be spending the summer.
• Watch Out for the Summertime—or Anytime—BluesThere are many signs of depression: sadness, pessimism, eating and sleeping problems, irritability, inability to concentrate.
• Encourage Good Nutrition, Exercise For School SuccessDiets often change as children approach the teen years.
• Help Your Teen Budget Time, Money This SummerFor many teens, the summer paycheck is the first “real” money they’ve ever had. And some have a tendency to spend every cent they make on clothes, CDs, and entertainment.
• Ask ‘Who Owns the Problem?’ To Develop Teen ResponsibilityTeach teens to take responsibility for their problems.
• Teens With Inner Strength Overcome Life’s ProblemsHow teens can overcome personal obstacles.
• Alert Your Teen’s School When Cyberbullies ThreatenIf your child is the victim of a cyberbully, he may be facing problems with bullies at school, too. Take steps immediately to help your teen.
• ‘Imaginary Portfolios’ Teach Teens About the Stock MarketToday, more and more people have some money “in the market."
• Talk With Your Teen About the Qualities of True FriendsHere are some other qualities of true friends to discuss with your teen.
• Discuss Cheating Violations With Your AdolescentFew teens want to seem out of step with their peers.
• Accountable Teens Keep Promises, Admit MistakesAn accountable teen takes ownership of what she did, and deals with the aftermath.
• Organize a Family ‘Launch Pad’ To Cut Down on Morning ChaosSteps to organizing your mornings.
• Planners Can Help Teens Keep Track of School TasksHow to help your child organize school work, other tasks.
• Give Your Teen Advice to Plan Ahead for Final Math ExamsHow to get ready for that big math test.
• Help Your Teen Make Good Promises and Follow ThroughA huge part of being responsible is actually doing what we say we’re going to do.
• Encourage Your Teenager To Keep a Spending NotebookTeens need help in learning how to manage their money.
• ‘Coach’ Your Teenager in This Process for Making DecisionsHow to coach your child toward making good decisions.
• Encourage Teens To Do Things for ThemselvesThe next stage for your teen is adulthood—taking care of himself without constant help from parents.
• Encourage, Notice Signs of Responsibility in Your TeenSigns that your child is becoming more responsible.
• Give Responsibility To Prepare Teens For AdulthoodHelp your teen learn to be responsible.
• Give Your Teen Guidelines for Practicing Good JudgmentHaving good judgment is a necessary step toward becoming responsible.
• Help Steer Your Teen Toward Safe, Healthy FriendshipsMany parents worry about negative peer pressure.
• Help Your Teen Avoid Peers Who Promote Risky BehaviorSuggestions that may help your teen NOT go along with the crowd.
• Help Your Teen Become More Responsible This School YearHelp kids become responsible for themselves.
• Maintaining a Schedule Builds Teen’s Sense of ResponsibilityAs your teen moves toward adulthood, she should gradually take over her own schedule and activities.
• Make Your Teen’s Volunteer Time More SuccessfulTips to make your child's volunteering more successful.
• Offer Your Services to Promote A Safe School for All StudentsIt’s a fact. Schools are still among the safest places teens can be. But school safety doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when parents, staff and students work together.
• Peer Pressure Can Be a Good Thing for Your TeenagerWe often think of peer pressure as a negative force.
• Teach Your Teen How To Keep Up With Records, File TaxesIf your teen held a paying job during the year, she’ll need to file a tax return.
• Teens Should Be Making Conscious and Informed ChoicesHelp your child make conscious choices.
• The Four R’s of Responsibility Help Teens Learn From MistakesTeens can sometimes learn important lessons about responsibility from those mistakes.
• The Four-Jar System Helps Teens Budget Money WiselyLearning to manage money is a big part of growing up.
• Tips for Teaching Teenagers The Value of MoneyThe older your teen gets, the more important it becomes for her to know how to spend wisely.
• Angry Reactions Can Be ControlledEveryone feels angry sometimes, but not everyone expresses anger the same way.
• Another Adult May Be Able To Inspire Your Teen To ActYour teen may be willing to take a risk for another adult that she would not take for you.
• Successful Parents Know Three Ways to Build CharacterTips for making the job of parenting a teen easier.
• Help Your Teen When There is ‘Nothing to Do’ This SummerFor many teens, the lazy days of summer are just that.
• Help Your Teenager Schedule Activities Wisely This YearThe second half of the high school year is especially busy.
• Start an After-School Club to Meet Your Teen’s InterestsYour teen spends hours on the computer, but there’s no computer club at school.
• Instill the Character Traits Your Family Values in Your TeenAs a parent, you choose the values you instill in your teen.
• Build Your Family’s Self ControlOnce children reach elementary school, tantrums should be few and far between.
• Encourage Your Teenager to Be Self-Directed During Free TimeYou know you should keep track of your teen during the late afternoon—the time when teens are most likely to get into trouble.
• Math Success Tips for AdolescentsMost students can master math if they work hard.
• Teens Can Combine Physical Fitness With Earning MoneyHas your teen become a couch potato?
• To Develop Responsibility, Get Your Teen to Take ChargeSome people have more success than others—not because they are luckier—but because they have positive attitudes and a strong sense of responsibility.
• ‘Esteem Boosters’ Help Your Teen Keep a Positive AttitudeMany things can happen throughout the course of a teen’s day to hurt self-esteem.
• Let Teenagers Know They Have Some InfluenceWhen babies play peek-a-boo, they’re learning about cause and effect.
• Teens Who Believe in Themselves Build ConfidenceConfident people are generally happy and successful.
• Help Prepare Your Teen by Reinforcing Key “Life Skills”Besides learning reading, writing and arithmetic, teens also need to master certain life skills.
• Don’t Criticize Shy Teens, But Be Available if They Want HelpIt’s Friday night and there’s a school dance on.
• Help Combat Eating Disorders; Boost Your Teen’s Body ImageHow to help your child develop a better body image.
• Explain That Sometimes, Success Starts Out as FailureExamples for your kids of successful folks who made it through rejection.
• Help Teens See Their Own Special Talents, PotentialTeens thrive if they have the right self-image.
• A Mentor Can Help Your Teen Build Confidence, SucceedParents are the most important caring adults in a teen’s life, but teens will be most successful if they have other caring adults behind them too.
• Finding Patterns Makes Math Problems EasierAll the math problems your teen’s teacher assigns do have solutions.
• ‘Mommy Checks’ Encourage Children To Be ResponsibleAcross the country, educators are learning the benefit of “catching kids being good."
• What To Do if You Think Your Child Has a Learning DisabilityWhat do Albert Einstein, Woodrow Wilson, Greg Louganis, and Cher have in common? All had learning disabilities. So do millions of kids today.
• Teach Your Child To Take Control of RelationshipsSteps to help your child resolve conflict.
• Cardboard Box Organizes HomeworkAn easy way to keep kids school stuff organized.
• Afternoon Plan Ends Morning CatastrophesOrganization can make mornings easier.
• Avoid Overscheduling During the Final Weeks of SchoolAt the end of the school year, children can often become overscheduled.
• If You Think Your Child Needs a TutorIf your child is having trouble in a subject, you may have thought about finding a tutor. But first try talking with your child’s teacher.
• Setting Expectations at Home Helps Children in Many WaysSetting expectations for your children at home and following up on those expectations is a great way to build responsibility.
• Start Good Habits Early to Make the Most of the Year
• Routines and Schedules Start the Year RightWays to get your family back into a good routine for the school year.
• Report Card Time: 3 Ways To Help Your ChildA midyear report is a good time for you and your child to set goals for the remainder of the year.
• Teach Children Consequences of Their ChoicesAs children grow older, they make more choices.
• Questions To Ask Before Yours Is a Latchkey ChildQuestions to ask before you allow your child to stay home alone.
• Help Your Older Child Get OrganizedAs the state of their rooms usually shows, preteens and teenagers are not naturally organized! As students move into the higher grades, though, teachers expect them to assume more responsibility for their own learning.
• All Children Can Be Encouraged To Be Productive"Output failure” is caused by subtle breakdowns in neuro-development and can affect memory, language, motor function and organization skills.
• A Card System Keeps Your Child Focused on ChoresUse a "Tickler File" to keep kids on task.
• Be Involved as Your Child Learns To Make ChoicesWe all want our children to learn how to make responsible choices.
• Do You Know Why Your Child Gets Bad Grades?Your child has brought home a report card that’s less-than-perfect.
• Parents Can Help Children Get Along With TeachersStudents do better in school when they have a good relationship with their teachers.
• Help Your Child Avoid Foods That Might Affect LearningChildren who eat right have more energy and ability to learn. Protein and iron, for example, help the brain function.
• Watch for Signs of Learning Disabilities in Your ChildParents don’t always know when their child has a learning disability.
• Consider Having An End-of-the-Year ConferenceWhether your child has had a great year, or one that’s not so wonderful, an end-of-the-year conference can help you learn some important things.
• Parents Should Be on the Lookout for Vision ProblemsAbout one in every four children have undetected vision problems. This can lead to poor grades and behavior.
• Letting Children Choose Builds ResponsibilityIf children are to learn how to make responsible choices about yound adult issues, they first need plenty of practice making other decisions.
• Teach Tattlers Better Ways to Solve Problems, Get AttentionWhen toddlers tattle, they do it just to report the events of a day. But when elementary-age children tattle, it’s more serious.
• Help Your Child Stay Calm and Confident on Test DaysNobody likes to take a test. And some kids get what’s called “test anxiety.”
• Teach Your Child The Process of ‘Plan, Do, Finish’Students can’t be successful in school if they lack organization.
• Offer Suggestions for Children Who Don’t Like RecessFor many kids, recess or P.E. is their “favorite subject.” But some kids dread this time of the day. It’s when they get teased, left out or picked on.
• Stay in Charge When Your Children Are Home AloneJust because you allow your children to stay home alone after school a few hours—doesn’t mean you give up your authority over them.
• It May Not Be Smart To Praise Your Child for Being "Smart"It’s common for parents to praise children for being “smart.”
• Get a Great Start to Make Your Child’s Year a SuccessHow you start the school year can determine how well the rest of the year will go.
• It’s Not Too Early for Your Child to Think About CareersElementary school is not too early for children to begin to think about a career.
• Expect Your Child To Pay the Consequences for StealingAnd if you suspect your child has taken anything that does not belong to him, you need to make sure he knows just how big a deal it is.
• Attitudes About Time Can Affect Kids' MotivationYou probably already know how motivation affects your own work.
• January Means New BeginningJanuary starts the new year.
• Encourage Your Child to Think About Future CareerIt’s not too early for your child to begin thinking about a career.
• Four Ingredients Make Any Child More SuccessfulKids can be successful without a lot of outside help.
• Give Your Child a Special School Work Survival KitStudents are just like other workers. They need to be adequately “equipped” to do their jobs—both at home and at school.
• Homework Styles for How Your Child Learns BestAs a parent, you know many things that make your child unique—including how he learns best.
• Take Action To Help Your Child Be a Good CompetitorHow to tell if your child is too competitive.
• Teach Your Child How To Be Unspoiled & Self-ReliantTips on raising an unspoiled child.
• Children Who Volunteer Get Better GradesChildren learn important lessons when families volunteer together.
• Breakfast Most Important Meal for SchoolchildrenDon't let rushed morning schedules keep kids from starting the day with something nutritious.
• Parents Influence Character As They Make Daily ChoicesThe choices you make will teach your child more about what it means to be kind to others than 100 lectures.
• STAR Method Helps Children Deal With DisappointmentFour steps that can give your child a way to feel in control, even during a hard time.
• Prepare for Teen Years by Teaching Your Values NowHow can you teach your values while still allowing your child to be with others?
• Make Resolutions To Bring Out the Best in Your ChildResolutions that are virtually guaranteed to evoke better behavior from your child.
• Model the Behavior You Want to See in Your ChildEach action you take teaches a powerful lesson to your child about the kind of person he should be.
• Use the Six E’s To Teach About ResponsibilityYou can help your child develop the trait of responsibility by using the six E’s.
• Volunteering as a Family Teaches Children ValuesLooking for a way to help your children become better citizens?
• Write Thank-You’s Together To Show Their ImportanceHelping your child write thank-you notes.
• Help Relieve Too Much Pressure On Kids to ExcelThe Girl Scouts of America recently conducted a national survey asking young people about their biggest worry.
• Teach Your Child the Value Of Hard Work, PerseveranceHelp your child learn to work hard and persevere.
• What If Your Child Doesn't Like a Teacher?When children are very young, they usually adore their teachers. But as they get older, they may find there’s a particular teacher they just don’t like.
• Teach the Importance of Treating Others With RespectTo help your child make friends, model the qualities that make it possible to attract and keep friends.
• Teach Responsibility Using ‘When-Then’ PhrasesResponsible people complete tasks they need to do before turning to those they want to do.
• Helping Others Can Teach Your Child Lessons in ResponsibilityPitching in at home teaches children about responsibility.
• Teach Your Child Values With Gifts From the HeartTeach your child to give as well as receive.
• 10 Questions About Your Child and SchoolThe more you know about how your child deals with challenges and what's expected of him, the better you'll be able to help him achieve. Start by asking these key questions.
• How Girls LearnGirls like to collaborate and often create strong relationships.
• How Boys LearnMany boys need opportunities to move around and like competitive situations.
• Can Food Help You Learn?Eating certain “brain foods” might make your kids smarter...but research shows they’ll be better off with a balanced diet, a good breakfast, and regular physical activity.
• Back-to-School BooksReading about going back to school is a great way to ease the transition. Especially with younger children, as you turn the pages together, you can talk about their real-life hopes and fears as well as discuss the wonderful characters in these books.
• What Is Your Child’s Learning Style?Understanding how your child learns can reduce frustration and improve achievement.
• Parents Are Teachers, TooUse these simple ideas to reinforce learning at home and develop your child’s academic skills.
• Summer Reading ListThese books, for kindergarteners to middle schoolers, will capture your kids’ imagination, and they’re perfect for reading aloud.
• If Your Child Is the BullyWhat to do when the school says your child has been involved in bullying — and she's the bully.
• Bullying: How Parents Can Fight BackKids are often reluctant to talk about bullying. Here’s how to spot it and what to do if your child is a victim.
• Moving Up to Middle SchoolThe step from elementary to middle school can be a big one, but these tips will help ease the transition for both parents and children.
• Facebook and Social Networking: What Parents Should KnowSocial networking sites like Facebook keep growing in popularity, especially among teens. But they can also be used for online bullying. Here are 10 tips to get parents up to speed and help them be aware of their teen's social networking activity.
• Internet Safety Tips for ParentsKids need to use the Internet; these tips will help you keep them safe.
• 10 Tips for Middle School ParentsWays to stay involved in your child’s education—even when she’d rather not have you around.
• Summer Amnesia: Avoid the Brain DrainKids lose academic ground in the summer. Use these tips to keep them from falling behind.
• Better Grades—10 Ways You Can Help!Make sure your child is ready to learn and achieve at school with these 10 smart tips on what you can do at home to prepare her for success.
• Have a Conversation About SchoolGet beyond one-word answers and find out what your child really thinks and feels about school.
• Talking With Teachers About Student ProgressDon't wait for the report card to find out how your child is doing in school; a veteran principal offers tips for parents to keep in touch all year long.
• School and the Internet: What You Should KnowHow students are using the Internet at school, and precautions you should take at home.
• 7 Things To Tell the TeacherSharing key information about your child can help teachers make a connection.
• Eating, Sleeping, and LearningEstablishing healthy habits now can ease the transition to a new school year.

6th Grade

• 6th Grade Social Changes: What To ExpectThis is a year of transitions, from the physical and emotional changes of adolescence to the new environment of middle school.
• 6th Grade Academics: What To ExpectStudents will be using more sophisticated thinking skills, interpreting and synthesizing the information they’re learning.
• Grade 6 Curriculum QuizAre you as smart as your 6th grader? Take this quiz and find out what he'll be learning this year.

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7th Grade

• 7th Grade Social Changes: What To ExpectThe beginning of the teenage years is a confusing time for many adolescents—and for parents trying to understand their behavior.
• 7th Grade Academics: What To ExpectAcademic concepts continue to get more advanced, and students will really need to use their study skills this year.

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8th Grade

• 8th Grade Social Changes: What To ExpectIn 8th grade, kids enjoy being the oldest students in school and look forward to the increased freedoms of high school.
• 8th Grade Academics: What To ExpectClasses get tougher, but students still have time to strengthen academic and organization skills before entering high school.

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