What Are The Best Middle School Parenting Tips?

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What Are The Best Middle School Parenting Tips?

Our family loves roller coasters!

The higher they are and the faster they go, the more we enjoy them.

We’ve not met many coasters that we didn’t like.

However, on one of our treks to a large amusement park in Virginia, we chose a rollercoaster that may have been a little too much.

This particular roller coaster had a very short line waiting to ride. So, we jumped in line thinking we had just timed our visit well.


What Are The Best Middle School Parenting Tips?

The ride started great and was much fun on the first few turns. But, as it progressed, we were tossed, turned, spun, and churned.

For what seemed like hours, we were put through a course of corkscrews, dips, turns, loops, and more. As we exited that roller coaster, we were exhausted and so glad to be off of the ride.

Everyone else had a similar experience with this particular rollercoaster because the line to ride it was always short.

That particular rollercoaster is much like raising middle schoolers.

Babies, preschoolers, elementary children, high schoolers, and even young adults are more like riding regular roller coasters.

There are highs and lows, dips, curves, and turns, but these stages of parenting are a little more predictable and manageable.


Middle Schoolers. They are in a class all by themselves. Click To Tweet


Middle Schoolers.

They are in a class all by themselves.

And, much like riding that wild roller coaster in Virginia, parenting middle schoolers will put you through a course of corkscrews, dips, turns, loops, and more. You will likely be tossed, turned, spun, and churned.

Similarly, you will probably be very glad when you get off the “ride” of parenting middle schoolers and likely hope to never “ride” that stage of parenting again.

But, not everything about parenting middle schoolers is hard, bad, and difficult.

There are some surprising JOYS of parenting, teaching, and working with middle school kids.


In fact, there are some surprising JOYS of parenting, teaching, and working with middle school kids. Click To Tweet


I Taught Middle School

I had the opportunity to teach middle schoolers in the school classroom for several years. Some of these insights are from my time teaching 100’s of kids. I’ve also called on the help of a few friends who are currently raising middle schoolers.

My friend Gay Edge, a longtime teacher and principal shares this insight:

“I have worked with middle schoolers as a teacher and as a principal for nearly 40 years. They are so fun. Every day is a new day. You can see the light bulb come on in their brain as they discover more of the world around them.

They are not too cool to talk to their teachers but can work independently. They are forming their worldview so there are such great opportunities to disciple them and to teach them that they are fearfully and wonderfully made in His image.”


What Are The Best Middle School Parenting Tips?

Tip OneEnjoy how much they grow up during this season!

Middle schoolers come in all shapes and sizes.

They all grow and grow up so much during these grades.

Mom Holly McBerty shares, One of the absolute best joys is when your son outgrows you. Seems silly but my son loves to show me how much taller he is than me but loving up on me! He’ll wrap his arm around me just to show me how much taller he is than me. I’ll take hugs from my 14-year-old anyway I can get them!”


Middle schoolers come in all shapes and sizes. They all grow and grow up so much during these grades. Click To Tweet


Tip TwoThey are lots of FUN! Have fun with your middle schoolers!

Laughter (and tears) are a big part of middle school.

Emotions are at high-alert status during these grades. Parents can try to enjoy the fun and the laughing moments as much as possible with children this age.

“Middle school boy humor is always interesting, but it’s become a little endearing to see my teen be able to laugh with his father and relate on more of a “man” level. Not that I get their sense of humor most of the time, but it is neat nonetheless!” shares mom Lori Schumaker.


Laughter (and tears) are a big part of middle school. Click To Tweet


Tip ThreeAppreciate the honesty! They will usually tell you how they feel about you! (and everything else)

For the most part, middle schoolers will tell you how they feel about you, their school work, each other, and life.

They may not be straightforward about what they are texting, writing, or doing, but they tend to make their feelings known about the adults in their lives.

As a middle school teacher, I would always know how my students felt about my hair, my lessons, my outfit, my new glasses, and pretty much everything else. They weren’t mean, but they didn’t try to hide their true feelings either. If middle schoolers don’t like or appreciate something, you will know it!

(In fact, I should probably go back and thank those kids. I dressed better, taught better, and learned to relate more genuinely after spending so much time with them!)


For the most part, middle schoolers will tell you how they feel about you, their school work, each other, and life. Click To Tweet


Tip FourEnjoy watching them develop their FAITH!

Mom Jennifer Shackelford remarks, I love watching him figure out who God wants him to be.”

Lori Schumaker shares, “I’ve also enjoyed witnessing his faith play out in his life. He was always comfortable speaking of Jesus and praying out loud, but now I’ve seen him take it a step further and initiate prayer within larger groups such as a new basketball team where all of the participants were not even believers. His comfort and ease as a spiritual leader is a blessing.


Tip FiveCelebrate with them as they begin to figure out their PASSIONS!

In most schools, middle school is the season when our kids get to join the band, the glee club, or the football team.

This is a stage when children begin to figure out what they like and don’t like.

“I’ve enjoyed seeing my son take the initiative in pursuing his passions. It changed from Mom’s reminders to get in those extra free throws, eat healthily, and take care of yourself, to my son doing those things all on his own. Now he’s asking me if he can get up extra early to fit in an extra workout!” shares Lori Schumaker.


In most schools, middle school is the season when our kids get to join the band, the glee club, or the football team. This is a stage when children begin to figure out what they like and don’t like. Click To Tweet


Tip SixEnjoy the way that they start to become more INDEPENDENT!

Middle schoolers can take on so much more responsibility.

They are smart, capable, and moving toward young adulthood.

Parents can often begin to allow middle schoolers to be responsible for their homework, schedules, and chores.

Holly McBerty shares, One of the joys at this age is realizing they are somewhat self-sufficient!”


Middle school can be one of the most challenging seasons for girls and for boys. As a parent of middle schoolers, what can you do and how can you survive? Here are words of advice, tips, and great suggestions from parents who survived middle school with their kids. Why not drop by for a little helpful encouragement? #middleschool #parentingtips #middleschoolparents


Tip SevenThey like to TALK to you about the coolest stuff! Enjoy this!

As kids move into these middle school grades, the conversations go to a whole new level… a deeper level.

Jennifer Shackelford remarks, When my son entered middle school our relationship changed.  We are now able to talk about deeper subjects instead of our time being spent meeting basic needs.”

Valerie Murray shares, My most cherished moments with my middle-school daughter have been when she sneaks into my room when she’s “supposed to be in bed” and we end up having heart-to-heart conversations about life and God.”


As kids move into these middle school grades, the conversations go to a whole new level... a deeper level. Click To Tweet


Tip EightThey become YOUNG ADULTS right before your eyes! Appreciate this!

It’s almost like a magic trick.

Children will enter middle school as sweet, little 6th graders and exit as taller, more mature 8th graders headed toward high school.

The metamorphosis is amazing.

“He is turning into a young man right before my eyes,” shared Jennifer Shackelford.


Tip NineEncourage them often! They are SO OPEN to encouragement!

As a middle school teacher, I found that these kids readily responded to words of affirmation.

I don’t think there is a season in a child’s life when they need to hear encouragement more than when they are in these middle school years.

Coaches, teachers, parents, grandparents, and church leaders can greatly impact kids at this juncture in their lives. This may be the BEST time to influence and encourage a child toward Christ.

I am one who came to Christ, was mentored, was greatly encouraged, and chose to follow hard after the things of God because of the adults and older friends in my life DURING middle school. I’m so grateful that people took the time to affirm and train me when I was most teachable.

Lori Schumaker echoes this idea, “It was a joy to watch my son recognize when friends were turning toward things that didn’t align with Christ, he chose to separate himself from that. He realized that friends will change, but God will always stay the same.”


Coaches, teachers, parents, grandparents, and church leaders can greatly impact kids at this juncture in their lives. This may be the BEST time to influence and encourage a child toward Christ. Click To Tweet


Tip TenGet ready. They will ENTERTAIN you if you let them!

Middle schoolers are a whole lot like preschoolers – only taller.

They are curious, fun, and interesting, and they can run the gamut of emotions—often in about an hour.

As a middle school teacher, I was always entertained by these children and their ever-changing moods.

As a parent, it was usually possible to find a little humor in their changing moods as well.

Mom Julie Meeks shares, The joy of parenting a middle schooler (for the third time) is knowing it’s like a fashion fad, short-lived. When you’re in the throes, it feels like it will never end. About the time you think you’ve figured it out, it fades away and they move into high school.”

Holly McBerty shares, “There are times when I want to strangle my son and there are times when my heart is bursting with joy – sometimes within the same hour. But, I’ve learned that parenting isn’t for sissies! Lean on your fellow parent friends – we’re all in this together!”


Middle schoolers are a whole lot like preschoolers – only taller. They are curious, fun, interesting, and they can run the gamut of emotions—often in about an hour. Click To Tweet


*Special thanks to the amazing moms who contributed to this article! You ladies are wonderful friends, and we appreciate your insights. Thank you, Lori Schumaker, Valerie Murray, Gay Edge, Jennifer Shackelford, Holly McBerty, and Julie Meeks.


Here’s another great way to encourage your middle schooler

It’s a devotional resource for teen girls. (There’s one for boys as well!)

It’s called Live in Light.

Crushes, girl squad drama, school stress—not to mention figuring out who you are and what you want to be when you grow up—a lot happens in your teens that can make you feel left in the dark. Find the light—open this book and let the Scripture be your guide.

Live in Light is every girl’s guide to tackling their teenage years with the wisdom and comfort of the Bible. From navigating the pressure to be “perfect” on social media to dating and dealing with frenemies, these 5-minute devotionals help you to become the woman that both you and God want you to be.

Inside these teen devotionals for girls, you’ll find:

In a world filled with change, this book offers unwavering guidance to live under the bright light of faith.

Discover more on Amazon – Live in Light.

Live In Light is every girl's guide to tackling their teenage years with the wisdom and comfort of the Bible. From navigating the pressure to be "perfect" on social media to dating and dealing with frenemies, these 5-minute devotionals help you to become the woman that both you and God want you to be. #teengirls #teendevotions #liveinlight #lighttheway


Could you use a little more parenting encouragement?

5 IMPORTANT THINGS OUR GIRLS LIKE TO HEAR

HOW TO FIND INCREDIBLE JOY IN PARENTING TEENS

 



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Middle school can be one of the most challenging seasons for girls and for boys. As a parent of middle schoolers, what can you do and how can you survive? Here are words of advice, tips, and great suggestions from parents who survived middle school with their kids. Why not drop by for a little helpful encouragement? #middleschool #parentingtips #middleschoolparents

Middle school can be one of the most challenging seasons for girls and for boys. As a parent of middle schoolers, what can you do and how can you survive? Here are words of advice, tips, and great suggestions from parents who survived middle school with their kids. Why not drop by for a little helpful encouragement? #middleschool #parentingtips #middleschoolparents

Middle school. It's one of the most challenging seasons of life for parents and for children. Here are some tips, quotes, and positive ideas for navigating the middle school years with more joy.

Middle school can be one of the most challenging seasons for girls and for boys. As a parent of middle schoolers, what can you do and how can you survive. Here is advice, tips, and great suggestions from parents who survived middle school with their kids. Why not drop by for a little helpful encouragement? #middleschool #parentingtips #middleschoolparents


helloredds@gmail.com

Best-Selling Author | Speaker | Blogger| Podcaster | When the world is falling apart, we can ALWAYS trust in God’s goodness!

25 Comments

Nicki Schroeder · 03/26/2019 at 10:05 AM

I think parenting in any season is tough lol But you sure help make it a little easier with this great list for middle schoolers. Love this!

Beth · 03/25/2019 at 2:35 PM

I love your wisdom, born out of experience, on this subject, Melanie! And these points are spot on, though I struggled quite a bit with number 3! 😉 Sometimes their honesty stung a bit too much! Lol! I’ve seen this around Pinterest and have been pinning it whenever I do. So today I’ll do a bit more sharing–pinning and tweeting as well!

    helloredds@gmail.com · 03/28/2019 at 7:32 AM

    Thank you, Beth!
    Yes. Experience is a wonderful teacher!
    And, I so appreciate the wisdom from my friends!
    (Their honesty can be brutal at times!)
    So appreciate you, your support, and your kindness!
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Raising Samuels · 02/27/2016 at 9:57 AM

It was so wonderful for you to find the joy in this age group, Melanie! I have heard this is the hardest stage of raising children. Thanks for sharing with #SocialButterflySunday! Hope to see you link up again this week 🙂

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/27/2016 at 10:08 AM

    Hey Kelly,
    There is JOY in every stage… even in middle school!
    However, it can be a challenge!
    Just enjoy those babies while they are small.
    You’ll have the grace later when you need it!
    Blessings,
    Melanie

Ifeoma Samuel · 02/24/2016 at 4:18 AM

I mean I don’t have middle school kids yet!!!

Ifeoma Samuel · 02/24/2016 at 4:14 AM

Lovely reading this. I don’t middle school kids yet! But I look forward to.
God Bless

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/24/2016 at 7:04 AM

    Yes, they all do eventually get to middle school!
    And, you will do great when they get there!
    Hope you have a blessed day~

Marva | sunSPARKLEshine · 02/23/2016 at 11:34 PM

Melanie, I’m so grateful for your encouragement in my parenting journey. At 8 and 10, my kids are not yet middle-schoolers but you’ve given me a glimpse into what to expect. I’m so glad that I can view each stage with joy rather than feel intimidated. Thank you for shining light on the path for others to follow. You are a blessing!

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/24/2016 at 7:04 AM

    Thank you, Marva!
    You and your kids are going to do great! I know you are a wonderful mom!
    And, thankfully each stage is just a stage – it begins and ends.
    Grateful for be able to connect with you!
    Your life blesses mine~

Lori Schumaker · 02/22/2016 at 6:38 PM

Melanie, This post is absolutely wonderful! Thank you for using my thoughts in this! I often feel like the roller coaster ride gets the best of me, so not only intentionally thinking of all the positives in our own lives, but having the opportunity to read all of these great thoughts was exactly what I needed today!! Thank you for the blessing you are!!!
Hugs,
Lori

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/22/2016 at 8:03 PM

    Thanks, Lori! And, thank you for being a part of this!
    That roller coaster does take its toll some days, but you are doing a great job!
    You are a good mom! Keep going strong!
    Appreciate you and your kind words today~

chaos2peace · 02/22/2016 at 2:35 PM

What a great article! Parenting in every season is difficult at times. I love that you focus on the positive side of things.

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/22/2016 at 8:01 PM

    We can laugh or we can cry! I’d rather laugh any day!
    You are doing great, Jennifer!
    Your boys are blessed~

Valerie · 02/22/2016 at 1:05 PM

What happens when you get a bunch of middle-school girls together? Lots of giggling! It’s so fun to watch this age as they blossom into adulthood while they hang onto bits of their childhood at the same time. I loved reading this Melanie!

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/22/2016 at 8:01 PM

    There is a whole lot of giggling with middle school girls! Enjoy it, Valerie!
    And, thank you for your kinds words of affirmation!
    Loved hearing about your girl sneaking in at night to talk to you~

Michele Morin · 02/22/2016 at 10:19 AM

I love this article on two levels: Right now I’m parenting a middle schooler and he is a hoot! Since he is #4, I am fully tuned in to the truth that what I’m seeing now is really the beginning of who this guy is. Then, too, I had the fun of teaching middle schoolers in Sunday School for quite a while and was AMAZED at how they began to step up and make the class their own. At one point, I had all girls and the class identity began to resemble my Ladies Missionary Fellowship group — right down to the detail of the kids bringing in snacks to share. What a fun group!

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/22/2016 at 11:27 AM

    You make me laugh, Michele! Sounds like you have been swarmed by the middle schoolers as well!
    They are quite a group! And, I love the picture of your middle schoolers acting like a group of little old ladies! That’s a hoot!
    Thanks for stopping by to leave a good word today!
    Hope you have a blessed day~
    Melanie

BlessingCounterDeb · 02/22/2016 at 9:31 AM

I laughed out loud so many times as I read this. Soooo much truth here. It brought back lots of memories. (Mostly good.) I’ve never been a fan of roller coasters but I love the analogy! My favorite part of middle schoolers is how easily they can make me laugh. They really are funny! Blessings my friend!

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/22/2016 at 11:25 AM

    I’m so glad that I could make your laugh today! If you don’t laugh at middle schoolers, you will cry, won’t you!
    They are some of the funniest little people out there!
    Appreciate your kind words!

Randy Redd · 02/22/2016 at 9:05 AM

Another wonderful post that provides a very balanced view. So many folks talk about the ‘dark-side’ of this age, I appreciate the positives you present that are part of the roller coaster years of middle school!

kim jones · 02/22/2016 at 6:42 AM

Love this…we are entering middle school for the first time in the fall and i am actually looking forward to it…this helped to know its not as bad as everyone makes it out to be!!!

    helloredds@gmail.com · 02/22/2016 at 11:23 AM

    Hey Kim,
    You are going to be a GREAT middle school mom! And, it’s not as bad as everyone thinks!
    It can be a whole lot of fun – if you get your mindset straight and ready!
    Thanks for stopping by to leave a good word today!
    Hope you have a great day~
    Melanie

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