Power of Parents ® Middle School Handbook
Chapter 2
As middle schoolers experience rapid growth and new challenges, parents play a crucial role in providing guidance and reassurance. Several key factors— freedom and responsibility, physical changes, and short-term thinking—shape their decision-making during this time. The following graphic highlights how these areas influence their choices and how parents can offer the right support.
World
Freedom and Responsibility
Middle schoolers seek more independence but may not always think through the consequences.
They want to make their own choices but still need parental guidance and structure.
They need opportunities to make decisions with support and boundaries.
Physical Changes
Rapid growth can lead to awkwardness, clumsiness, and self-consciousness.
About one in five middle school students believe they are overweight or underweight.
Helping kids feel confident in their bodies can reduce pressure to engage in risky behaviors.
Short-Term Thinking
Decisions are often based on immediate emotions rather than long-term consequences.
They may prioritize fitting in over considering potential risks.
Asking open-ended questions, that start with how, what or why, can help them think ahead and develop critical decision-making skills.
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