Navigating the Middle Years - Help!
Dan Siegel is an expert on the teenage brain. He celebrates this time in life, and reminds us that many myths about this age aren't true. Using attention (an important executive function), and focusing on what we want to improve, can change the structure of our brain in a positive way. Want to learn more about how middle school minds work and how keeping active is vital for wellbeing? Check out Dr. Dan Siegel's video on the adolescent brain.
If your middle schooler is having a bad day, keep it simple:
Listen, Don't Pry. Kids this age want space and can seem secretive. Let them know you're around to help, but don't grill them with questions. If they are upset about a friend, just listen. You don't need to step in and fix everything.
Keep the Small Stuff Light. Shoes in the hallway, wet towels on the bed, food left out - it's annoying, but not a disaster. Use a little humour to get them to fix it without starting a fight.
Break Big Tasks Into Small Steps. Big school projects can feel impossible to a middle schooler. When they feel overwhelmed, they tend to give up. Help them split big jobs into small, simple steps so they can get started.
Offer Reminders and Structure. Giving friendly reminders or helping grab school supplies isn't spoiling them. Just like you held their hand when they learned to walk, they still need your help as they figure out new social and academic challenges.
Extra Help at School. You don't have to do it all alone. Take advantage of school programs to help them build good habits. ISA offers middle school after school clubs focused on study habits and getting organised.
Have a lovely weekend!
Warm regards,
Valerie DeGraw
School Counsellor
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