Change Your Strategy When Dealing With Middle-Schoolers

As a former middle school teacher who worked primarily with children with behavioral issues, this is an age group dear to my heart. If there were ever a time to be clear about boundaries, it’s during these years. At the same time, children this age need more freedom (and thus, more responsibility) because they’re getting older. Since much of the time you spend with your twelve or thirteen-year-old will be filled with conflict, it’s important to take advantage of the moments he or she lets you in. Catch him when he’s vulnerable, and tell him as much as you can about whatever it is you want him to know – and whatever it is you expect of him. Do this alongside tremendous praise. You cannot over praise a middle-school child.