By Georgia Smith-Lyle , MA , LPC-S
Transition to Middle School
Competence is a very important character quality your child will need developed for their transition from elementary school to middle school . Children ’ s main focus during this transition period is school , sports , or any activity they are passionate at succeeding . Neighbors , friends , and school will be their main relationship focus . Don ’ t be taken off guard if now your child seems to be more focused on their friends and school activities , sports , etc ., more than “ family ” life .
Although family life and the consistency and security of home life will always be their anchor point of reference ( which is vital to their emotional security ), they will begin to shift their attention to the world outside of the realm of home life . This is a natural transition psychosocial development . They will learn healthy boundaries with friends , more about conflict resolution , confidence and determination . Instilling in your child competence during elementary years will help their transition into middle school easier .
This time period in a child ’ s life can be an extremely anxious period . Provide plenty of avenues and activities for them to succeed , building the character quality of competence . Demonstrate in your home how to effectively communicate , listen to one another and resolve conflict so that outside of the home they will be able to respond in healthy ways to teachers , friends , coaches , etc . Children who feel inferior to others will struggle emotionally , hindering them from being industrious .
Transition into middle school can be a success and smooth when an internal belief they are competent to do anything they put their mind to do has been instilled in them . This is not the same as a cocky , arrogant attitude . A healthy respect for people and their abilities is important . Some children are more competitive than others , but should always be encouraged with healthy teamwork and acceptance of those who are better at some things than they are . Children will learn their strengths and weaknesses . Middle school will teach them to celebrate their strengths and encourage them to improve in their weak areas . If they feel competent , they will better meet the challenges . If they feel inferior , they will stumble through and may even give up .
Positive affirmation in the elementary years of children ’ s development is vital . Every child is gifted in so many ways . Middle school is an unveiling of more of their gifts , strengths and weaknesses . As parents , coaches , mentors , teachers , it is important to encourage them in every aspect of their lives . They will compare themselves to others and long for acceptance . Remember helping them feel and be competent will make this transition much smoother . A happy child makes a happy parent . A happy parent makes a happy home life . Perfection is not the goal … but joy and success in whatever your child sets their mind to do , remembering to not give up . Failure is only failure if you refuse to get up and try again ! Sometimes , timing is crucial of when to try something new and acceptance of certain activities not being best suited for them is the best decision . They will find out more about themselves and you will have the opportunity to guide them through the transition to middle school and self-discovery .
I hope this school year will bring out the best in your middle schooler as they will grow and learn more about themselves . The joy you will experience watching them develop will be extremely rewarding and create many lasting memories !
Georgia Smith , MA , LPC-S is in private practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas providing counseling for children , adolescents , adults , and marriage and family . She is also an author of two books and a public speaker . Georgia may be reached at 469-855-0256 or via email gpsmith7 @ aol . com . www . counselingbygeorgia . com .
26 DENTON COUNTY Living Well Magazine | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2017