The Middle School Parent Resource

Show #213 – “Is your child anxious about school starting?”

Although the idea of heading back to school after a summer of fun doesn’t bring a smile to many faces, the reluctance some children have about the transition can cause extreme anxiety. How can parents help the overly anxious child make a smooth transition back into the school year this fall? Today’s show shares three ideas for the parent of an anxious child.

I would love to hear from you. Join the discussion by sending me your questions, comments, ideas and ramblings. The show improves and so does your child's journey through the middle school years, when you contribute.joe@thinking-forward.com

Show #212 – “Budget-minded Back to School Shopping”

Yesterday’s call from a reporter on the topic budget-minded back to school shopping prompted today’s show on the very same topic. With the four top strategies from today’s show you can save time, dollars and the overwhelming sense of anxiety that often accompanies back to school shopping.

I would love to hear from you. Join the discussion by sending me your questions, comments, ideas and ramblings. The show improves and so does your child's journey through the middle school years, when you contribute.joe@thinking-forward.com

Show #211 – “Quick! What does KUTGW mean?”

Today’s headline in the Life and Style section of the Wall Street Journal brought focus to texting and its effect on mainstream society. Although Stephanie Raposo’s article looks at the texting trend among businesses there is a significant section dedicated to parents. Brush up on your text-speak at either www.netlingo.com or www.teenchatdecoder.com. With over 2000 acronyms currently in use, you may need a cheat sheet to decode your child’s next attempt at communication.

I would love to hear from you. Join the discussion by sending me your questions, comments, ideas and ramblings. The show improves and so does your child's journey through the middle school years, when you contribute.joe@thinking-forward.com

Show #204 - "How do middle school orientations work?”

Today’s show topic comes from one of you. As we move closer to August thoughts of school begin to creep back into the minds of kids and parents alike. Middle school orientation, when done successfully, is a wonderful opportunity for kids to gain a basic introduction to the school campus, the administration, clubs and their class schedule. Typically, orientation takes place during the week prior to school beginning. Look for an information packet to arrive at least two weeks prior to the first day of school. Call the school or take a quick visit to their web site to confirm the date.

I would love to hear from you. Join the discussion by sending me your questions, comments, ideas and ramblings. The show improves and so does your child's journey through the middle school years, when you contribute.joe@thinking-forward.com

Show #201 - "Highlights from your week, take stock and share”

Book giveaway today. Ken Robinson’s book, The Element, is yours. Watch the show to find out how you can get your hands on a copy. Landing Ken’s book would be a highlight on anyone’s list, and I’m hoping it is just one of many incredible moments that inspired your week. Today’s show challenges you to take stock of both the events and people that energized you during the past seven days. Enjoy the weekend ahead. I’m off to Sacramento for a Monday morning TV spot. If you are in the Sacramento area, tune your TV to channel 10 at 9am.

I would love to hear from you. Join the discussion by sending me your questions, comments, ideas and ramblings. The show improves and so does your child's journey through the middle school years, when you contribute.joe@thinking-forward.com