13 Tips For Success From A Middle School Principal

You should remain the main influence in your child's life, even though he is more independent and involved in extracurricular activities. You can help your child to believe in education and be excited about learning by being involved in extracurricular activities and school.
My job as a principal of a middle school is to support parents in helping their children succeed academically and emotionally. My best advice to parents of preteens is:

1. Help her manage her homework time. Encourage and reward her for her hard work. Ask your teacher how long it should take to finish homework. You can find out what resources your school provides to assist you in helping your child.
2. Showing interest in your children's studies is as simple as talking to them daily about their schoolwork and what they are learning. Don't just accept "nothing". Participate in your child's science project if you already know about it. You can do the same with cheerleading or sports.
3. Talk about your feelings and thoughts about school, activities, and studies. Be honest about what you think your child should and can do. Expecting her to do well in school or achieve high scores on tests is unrealistic. Expecting too much will lead to unnecessary disappointment.
4. Review with your children the information provided by districts and schools. Learn about the course descriptions, student handbook and pupil progress plan. These will help your child and you navigate the middle school maze.
5. Keep in touch with school counselors or teachers to find out how your child is doing. Partner with your child in their education.
6. Attend school regularly. If your child is going to miss a school day, call the school to find out how he can make it up.
7. Encourage and support her in pursuing interests, making friends, and participating in extracurricular activities. Just make sure to limit the number of activities she chooses so that schoolwork is not compromised. You will need to compromise and be patient in order to find the right balance.
8. Know who your children hangs out with. If you suspect anything, follow up. You should always be careful with your child at this age. You should always know where your children are. You should always be consistent and clear with your discipline.
9. Explain to her that she has to adhere strictly to school policies and rules. Teach your daughter how important it is for her not only respect property but also people. Encourage her to know the difference between right and wrong. Teach her how to handle negative situations.
10. Encourage your child to become familiar with his or her counselor, and maintain contact as long as possible throughout the middle school years. Your child's counselor is not only a valuable resource in helping him achieve his academic goals, but also an adult role model.
11. Attend parent meetings and other activities for parent. It is important to your child. I have said it before.
12. You can help your child as well as the school by volunteering. Schools are always looking for volunteers who can help out in various ways.
13. Be sure to reward and recognize your child's hard work. Some parents expect their schools to do this. Although schools have many programs to motivate students, parents should also recognize their children's accomplishments. Your acknowledgement of your child's hard work will motivate him to continue.

We all make mistakes as parents. Your child still needs your respect and love. A pre-teen should learn to be self-sufficient and independent to succeed both at school and in the home. It is important to make sure that she receives the emotional support she needs. You can help your child enjoy middle school with your understanding, good judgment, and sense of humor.