Resources for Parents

Navigating the Middle School Years

        Middle school is a time of tremendous growth and change. Students are becoming more independent while still needing plenty of support, guidance, and connection from the adults in their lives. We've gathered some trusted resources to help families navigate the academic, social, emotional, and digital challenges that can come with these years.

Your middle schooler still needs you.

They may want more privacy.
They may roll their eyes.
They may insist they can do everything themselves.
They may tell you “Nothing happened” when clearly something happened.

  But underneath all of that, they still need connection, boundaries, encouragement, and a safe   place to land.
 

  Be available. Be curious. Set limits. Give them room to grow.

As you navigate parenting during the middle school years, staying current on the issues facing your child is essential. We have compiled a categorized list of evidence-based websites which you can consult on a multitude of topics.

 Understanding Your Middle Schooler

• CDC – Essentials for Parenting Teens- A free online resource for parents and caregivers of children between the ages of 11-17
   
• HealthyChildren.org – American Academy of Pediatrics- a wealth of articles ranging from the stages of adolescence to helping your child build a healthy future
   

 Mental Health & Well-Being

• Child Mind Institute- Explore topics like ADHD, Anxiety, Adolescent Self-Esteem, Executive Functioning, Gender & Sexuality, and Sleep

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

 Phones, Social Media & Technology

• AAP Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health
   
• AAP Family Media Plan
   
• Common Sense Media

Note: The Pond Road Middle School Guidance Department and Robbinsville School District are not responsible for information within these links. They are not exhaustive, and should be used as a reference only. Please contact the guidance office if you have any questions or concerns.