5th-6th

A student transitioning from the 5th to 6th grade will experience an increased academic workload, going from elementary school to middle school. However, they will also experience increased independence, the forming of new friendships and the opportunity to participate in new clubs and athletic organizations.

Parent Tips for Preparing for the 6th Grade

Encourage organization and strategies for scheduling with your child. Purchase or create a daily planner or homework tracker
Create a designated work space and allocate time for homework and other school assignments
Allow your child to engage in a "productive struggle" and explain the need for them to learn from their mistakes
Get to know your child's school counselor
Review the student handbook with your child
Start practicing new routines with your child before school starts

Ways to Support Your Child During the 6th Grade

Programs to Monitor Your Child's Progress

How to Communicate with Your Child's Teacher

How to Support Your Child's Social/Emotional Learning

Help your child prepare for tests by addressing test anxiety
Set goals for your child (academic and personal)
Talk with your child about their feelings regarding starting middle school
Discuss responsible decision making (studying, completing homework, organization, etc.)
Attend an Open House with your child so that they can familiarize themselves with their new school
Talk with your child about how to work through conflicts and how to solve problems when issues arise
Encourage your child to establish healthy relationships with others
Encourage your child to get involved in extracurricular activities in or out of school to build relationships with other students.

Behavioral Support Tips for Parents

Discuss new norms and expectations for secondary school to include multiple teachers and additional coursework
Review time management and prioritization skills
Discuss emotions/feelings, how you can tell (physical states that indicate those emotions), and how your child can cope.
Discuss test-taking skills and strategies (eliminating wrong answers, highlighting, re-reading, etc.)
Teach your child that there is a time and a place for everything. Review the appropriate times and locations for various activities