I remember having an incoming Freshman and wondering the same thing. It is a momentous year the beginning of the end. I came across a great article with some helpful advice, advice I wish I would've read 6 years ago when I had my first incoming Freshman. There are 4 relatively simple steps to help relieve some of that stress. (I came across these this summer while reading other blogs, when I figure out who said these wise words I will reference them, I'm not trying to steal someone else's ideas, really I promise) Clarify Expectations: Your student might be scared! They know that the grades they make here are the ones that matter, GPA becomes so important to some. Staying eligible for their extra curricular activities can also cause some stress. But they also might fear that these higher academic pressures and the added responsibilities will alter the expectations that you as a parent might have on them. Sit down and have a chat. If you are a kid reading this you can initiate that chat or tell your parents they have to read my blog and they might initiate that chat. It is better to talk about expectations before the pressure gets out of control and this might head off unnecessary panicking. This chat can be short, and if your kids are like mine you might just get a bunch of Ok, Ok, Ok I got it mom. Express Unconditional Emotional Support: This is another time I would hear a bunch of Ok, Ok, Ok I got it mom from my kiddos, but I wish I would of done this. As summer ends and the impending first day of school comes let your student know that they have your unconditional emotional support. Assure them that they can come to you with questions and concerns, articulating that you are available to help and clarify questions when you can. Reassuring them that you are in their corner can help with their anxieties. Do a Walk-Through: US News says that this is one of the best strategies to help reassure your new HS Freshman. Now this is one I didn't really have to do, I work at the school they knew the lay of the land. I can not imagine walking into this building at 14 without a clue. Now, don't worry DSHS staff and students are exceptional, we will get them where they need to be. We recognize who is traumatized and about to have a meltdown, we won't let that happen. Taking that extra time the week before school to scout out a plan will make them feel better. School starts on a Wednesday this year, come in on Tuesday and walk around, pick up a map and highlight, circle, whatever works for you. Contact Us: Us, who is us? My advice is start with the counseling center, I cannot say enough nice things about them. If you are on my Blog you are probably one of my kiddos, so by all means contact me. I am more than happy to give you a personal tour. If I'm not available I will find someone to help. Don't you feel better already, we have a plan to help transition into high school. This is my 4th school in my educational career and I always walked the halls when hired to find my way. Imagine being 14 and not having that chance. When I find the blog I got this advice from I will reference it HERE. See you soon!! Mrs. Jones
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