Discussion Questions:

• Are you excited about starting a new grade and school? What are you most excited about?

• Are you worried or anxious about any new things you might face? What worries you the most?

• Middle school can mean a "clean slate." Do you see middle school as a way to avoid any problems you had in elementary school? What kinds of problems?

• Have your teachers told you what to expect in middle school?

• What kinds of classes and subjects will you be taking? Which ones interest you the most?

• Are there any sports, clubs, or activities that you're looking forward to?

• Are you concerned about making new friends?

• You're going to be facing new responsibilities and new freedoms at school. Do you feel like your life at home should change too?

• Do you want to talk about how I dealt with this transition when I was a kid?

• What can I do to help you get prepared for this new school year?

Remember:
--If your child hasn't already been given a tour or orientation of his or her new school, arrange one with a school administrator.

--As an activity, you and your child might start a list of resources associated with the new school situation. Items on this list might include: names of counselors, librarians, and other members of the administration; information on sports teams, clubs or activities your child is interested in; supplies that he or she will need for the coming year.