Mrs. Meyer-Davis: 5th to 6th Grade Transition Web-site

For Family Members : Helping your Child Make a Successful Transition

Tips for Helping Your Child Transition from Elementary to Middle School:

* FInd out about the differences between the two schools from other parents and school staff members in your community
* Talk with your child about the differences between the schools: teahers, schedules, new classes
* Take advantage of PTG Parent Nights and August 6th Grade Orientation programs
* Tell your child about your confidence in him and his ability to do very well at the Middle School
* Talk to your child about the different changes she may see at school, such as cliques and other adolescent issues
* Ask your child what he thinks middle school will be like.  Listen and talk to your child about his fears, confidence and hopes
* Review school informaiton prior to the beginning of the school year.  Make sure to read through the school handbook with your child within the first couple of days of school
* Visit the school web-site
* Buy a comibination lock for her gym locker as soon as possible and help her practice opening it all summer.  This will help make her first locker experience more successful
* Find out about school rules and talk to your child about the reason for these rules.  Let your child know you support the school rules
* Share your memories and experiences with your child about times you were worried about a new situation. Make sure to talk about good thins that happened and how you dealt with obstacles
* Check in with your child regularly and ask how she is feeling about school.  Make sure to ask about friends, what she is learning, who are his teachers and staff he interacts with and what he is doing in his free time
* Help your child become as organized as they can be.  Talk about how being organized can help him be responsible and do well in school.
* Expect your child's transition to be successful.  Remember the adjustment will take time.  Your position outlook can help your child; let him know you are confident in his ability to do well!