The Sixth Grade Survival Guide
Middle school is a vastly different experience than elementary school and it will likely take your child some time to adjust to the new surroundings and expectations here at Lanier. In fact, as a parent of a middle school student, you may be thinking of how best to prepare for the year to come as well. As sixth grade teachers, we know firsthand how difficult this year can be for parents and students both, so we have compiled a list of lessons learned from our many years of teaching.
The suggestions listed below, which we call our Sixth Grade Survival Guide, are based on experience and firsthand knowledge and are intended to help you and your child make a smooth transition into sixth grade. Happy reading and welcome to adolescence, parents!
Let freedom ring…after the winter break. Some parents believe they should grant their child new freedom because they are in middle school. Others take the opposite approach and monitor their child’s behavior even more closely than before. You can always grant more freedom as the year progresses, so ask your child questions, monitor their planner and check over their work until they have proven they can be responsible and independent.
When in doubt, doubt. The planner says it all. If they have homework, it will be written there. If they say they don’t have homework, and some days they may not, have them show you their planner anyway so you can check for yourself. If the planner is blank or if you suspect vital information is not being written down, ask them to have us sign it so you can be sure of its accuracy or send us an email.
The terrible two. Disorganization and/or failure to turn in assignments are the two factors that contribute most to a student’s poor academic performance. Teaching your child proper organization skills will make sure they come to class prepared everyday and that assignments get done and are turned in on time.
Big fish, little pond. Every year, Lanier receives 1000+ vanguard applications for 300 sixth grade slots. Consequently, our cluster is composed of high achieving students from all over the city, which makes for a competitive classroom. Some students have a difficult time adjusting to the idea they may not get straight A’s or that someone may score higher than they on an exam. Remind them they are here at Lanier for a reason and to seek out help from us if need be. They belong here, keep that in mind.
The Yin and Yang of Sixth Grade. Today, students have planners to schedule their school days and home/activity time. After school, many students participate in extra curricular activities, like athletics, drama and debate and music and dance classes. Additionally, students begin to value their social lives a great deal in sixth grade. As a result, during the sixth grade year, it becomes increasingly difficult for students to balance so many different responsibilities. Time management is a lesson that must be taught, so help your child learn to plan ahead. In addition to the planner keep a monthly calendar and mark off important dates well in advance so everything gets done, allowing for down time so kids can be kids and enjoy themselves. A balanced life is a happy life and the sooner that lesson gets taught, the better.