Junior High School

How to help your child succeed in junior high school

Junior high school is the stepping-stone from elementary school to high school. It is an important point in your child's academic experience and comes at a time when many children begin to feel social pressures that they haven't previously faced. It's important for parents to strike a balance between supporting their child and giving them enough space. In all cases, continue to help your child focus on school as the highest priority.

Be supportive about the personal experiences your child is having in junior high school. This is a time when children are developing and exploring their own beliefs, values, and goals. It will be important to respect his emotional space. He may not want to discuss arguments he has had with friends or school in general, but know that this is not abnormal behavior for students at this age. It will be helpful to let him know that you are there if he ever needs anyone to talk to.

Try to talk to your child regularly about school and what is going on in his classes. Showing this type of interest in your child's education will encourage him to focus on the positive aspects of school and academics. He might realize through these conversations that he is truly interested in a particular subject, which he'd like to explore further. This type of support might also help your child feel more comfortable with telling you about any problems with friends or in school.

If your child is having trouble in a subject, offer to help him or to find him help. If he only needs a bit of help in an area that you are familiar with, you can not only strengthen his schoolwork, but also his relationship. If he needs help in a subject that you don't know very well, or if he needs extra help, start thinking about tutoring services and learning centers that are skilled and qualified to help improve grades.

As difficult as junior high school can be for students, you can work with your child to make the period positive and enriching.

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