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Middle school readiness
During the middle school years, children are not known for using great
judgment. They will probably choose a class based on which friends are in that class before they think about their educational future. Most schools send enrollment information home in the spring of the year. Letting your child fill in the classes would probably be a mistake. Sit down with the child and discuss each class. Make a list of positive and negatives for each elective class. Even though they may have limited elective classes at this level of their education, choosing not to take band in 7th grade could limit the choices they have in the future. Let the child feel some ownership by being a partner in the decision-making. Encourage, maybe even demand, that your child take challenging classes that fit with their maturity and intelligence level. If your child is a very good reader and highly motivated, encourage them to take honors English if it is offered. One note of caution: If your child is an average or below average reader, don't push them up a notch so they can become better. This can lead to discouragement, and the child could start to dislike reading altogether. Try to be realistic as a parent. If your child is an under-achiever, challenge them to take a tough class, but draw up a contract with rewards and consequences for success or failure. Possible examples for rewards: One Saturday off (no chores) Parent to do a child's chore for a week New computer software Movie pass Dinner out One ride to mall with no complaining Pay for cell phone for 1 month Pay for text messaging on cell for one month Purchase 1 ring tone for cell phone Any activity of child's choice *Be creative (non-material things provide longer lasting memories) Possible examples for consequences: Added chores No Video games Added structured study time No rides to mall Limited TV Grounded from phone Take cell phone away Remove text messaging off of cell phone Early Saturday wake-up Earlier bedtime Again, be creative. Try to focus on negative reinforcement (taking good things away) rather than punishment (giving bad things). This is less likely to create a barrier. Make sure the consequences have defined, realistic time lines. Do not threaten what you will not be able to follow through with, and BY ALL MEANS, FOLLOW THROUGH! |
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