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MiddleSchool.org provides resources for parents of adolescents.
Common Sense Media provides parents with resources from a wide variety of topics. Topics include cyberbullying, social media, tech addiction, self-image and more.
Article: Help your child succeed in middle school and beyond
WELCOME TO PARENTING A MIDDLE SCHOOLER!
Parenting a middle schooler is full of uncertainty, joy, and complex emotions. Below you will find critical information to help you understand and support your middle school student as they navigate school, friendships, and puberty.
📳 DIGITAL LIFE
Set expectations. Establish ground rules for online behavior.
Balance screen time with other activities. Encourage offline interaction and hobbies.
Engage in digital activities with your child. Ask them to show you what they enjoy online.
👥 SOCIAL SUPPORTS
Brainstorm traits of a good friend, like kindness and respect.
Teach specific conversation starters to help your child connect.
Emphasize the importance of inclusivity and standing up to mean-spirited behavior.
🌷 PUBERTY STRIKES!
Crushes & Relationships:
Remember that first middle school crush is intense but often fleeting.
Normalize discussion around feelings and healthy relationship boundaries.
Mega Mood Swings:
Recognize that emotional changes are natural during this time.
Stay calm, listen, and validate feelings.
🔑 KEY TIPS FOR PARENTS
Blossoming Interests: Encourage new hobbies, interests, and curiosity.
Managing Mental Health: The pressure to fit in can be intense; normalize seeking support and therapy.
Keep an Eye out for Red Flags: Look for withdrawal, sudden behavior changes, or mood shifts that interfere with daily activities.
DOC072918-07292018125349.pdf
Message to Parents re Cyberbullying:
Cyberbullying and the misuse of social media platforms like Instagram, especially among our students, is a growing concern.
Here are some key points to consider:
Cyberbullying: Bullying that occurs online can be just as harmful as traditional bullying. It can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and even self-harm. Cyberbullying is also a Chapter 19 Class A offense in Hawaii public schools.
Anonymous Accounts: Creating anonymous accounts to bully others is cowardly and unacceptable. It doesn't absolve individuals from the consequences of their actions.
Impersonation: Creating fake accounts to impersonate others is another harmful behavior that can lead to serious consequences, including legal action.
Age Restrictions: Many social media platforms, including Instagram, Snapchat, and Discord, require users to be 13 or older. It's essential to ensure our students are adhering to these guidelines.
Parental Supervision: We encourage parents to be actively involved in their children's online activities. Monitor their social media use, discuss responsible online behavior, and keep open lines of communication. Don’t believe everything you see posted.
Reporting: If your child experiences cyberbullying or witnesses it, please encourage them to report it to a trusted adult, whether it's a teacher, counselor, or parent. Report inappropriate posts and accounts.
In addition, we strongly encourage you to consider delaying your child's introduction to social media. Recent studies have shown a strong correlation between increased social media use and negative mental health outcomes in adolescents, including anxiety, depression, and decreased self-esteem. By limiting or eliminating social media use, you can help protect your child's mental well-being.
Our school is committed to fostering a safe and positive learning environment. We have policies in place to address cyberbullying and will take appropriate action when incidents are reported.
We encourage you to have open conversations with your children about the responsible use of social media and the potential consequences of cyberbullying. By working together, we can create a safer online community for students.
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