5 Things Your Middle Schooler Is Up To Right Now

As a middle school educator, I can assure you that today’s middle school experience is just as cringeworthy as it was during your time. Whether you’ve chosen to forget those years or not, here’s a rundown of five key activities that define a typical middle schooler.

1. Discovering Disturbing Yet Intriguing Facts About Relationships

Gone are the days when elementary school gossip revolved around absurd myths. In middle school, kids are exposed to more mature content, spending unsupervised hours online, and absorbing information from older siblings. This results in conversations that have a ring of truth. I vividly remember a late-night chat at a friend’s house when I first heard about more intimate topics. We were still trying to figure out how to catch the attention of boys, but the knowledge was shocking. So, it’s wise to avoid discussing anything romantic around your middle schooler; they’re already grappling with enough confusion.

2. Experiencing Intense Crushes

Middle school is notorious for its fleeting romances. While these crushes may not last long, they are filled with overwhelming intensity. The object of affection may be someone your child has never spoken to, yet somehow, they are completely infatuated. I remember my seventh-grade crush—a boy with long hair and a rebellious streak. The excitement of watching him at bowling practice was a whirlwind of emotions. Understand that as a parent, you can’t control these feelings, but you can remind them to keep it light and fun, especially during this awkward phase.

3. Navigating Physical Changes

Preteens face a myriad of physical challenges—be it acne, braces, or the onset of puberty. Yet, what stands out are the fashion disasters. Middle school is a time when kids experiment with their style, often leading to cringe-worthy outfits. My own fashion journey was a series of missteps: from oversized bows to questionable color combinations. Boys have it easier without the pressure of makeup, but there are still plenty of awkward moments to go around. As a parent, your role is minimal here; let them express themselves, even if it means walking a few steps behind in the mall.

4. Dealing with Social Dynamics

For many middle schoolers, navigating the social scene can be like walking a tightrope. They are either feeling excluded or, sometimes, engaging in the exclusion of others. Social hierarchies are often silent yet powerful. The pressure to conform to peer expectations can be overwhelming, leading to many misunderstandings. As a parent, it’s crucial to be supportive without adding to the stress. Kids want to please everyone, but they often struggle to meet those expectations.

5. Fearing Normalcy

At this age, reassurance is key. Your middle schooler is likely questioning their place in the world and worrying about fitting in. This is something you can actively help with, offering support both verbally and through your actions. Remind them consistently that it’s okay to feel out of place and that everything will eventually work out.

In summary, while your middle schooler is navigating through intense emotions, social hierarchies, and their own unique transformations, your role as a parent is to provide support and understanding without overwhelming them. Just remember: steer clear of any discussions about relationships, as they’re already dealing with plenty of awkwardness.

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