Prepare Your Daughter – Middle School

Your daughter will be attending middle school in a matter of a few weeks and though she might look calm, chances are she is sort of freaking out! There will be new kids to get to know, a new school to navigate, a locker to figure out, and switching classes all day long. There will be hormones, and mean girls, and crushes, and most likely that dreaded first menstrual period. So how can you help your daughter during this important transition in her life?

The School Itself

First, try to tackle the physical aspects of the school. Take her on a tour of the school during registration and let her map out her classes if she knows them ahead of time. Also, have her practice opening her locker a few times so she isn’t trying to figure it out on the first day and ends up late for class. Let her get a few of the fashionable school supplies instead of just buying the basics, and let her decorate her locker. (We love this locker trio from Justice). Consider gifting her a few cute magnets for her locker that will cheer her up when her feelings get hurt or she gets a poor exam grade (it’s bound to happen).

Hygiene

Once she knows the logistics of middle school, move on to hygiene. First of all, make sure she knows about puberty and knows how to practice good hygiene habits. If needed, make a simple hygiene checklist for her to complete in the mornings to ensure she doesn’t forget deodorant or to brush her teeth. I would also put a clean pair of underwear, a pad, and a tampon in a little bag to keep in her backpack or locker in case she starts her period at school. Talk to her about what to do if she starts her first menstrual period at school and who would be a good person to talk to about it. American Girl’s book explains personal hygiene and puberty in a way that even younger girls would understand. I like that it’s not just about her period, but also about how she should take care of her entire body from head to toe during that time in her life when her body is experiencing many changes. Take your daughter shopping for new school clothes. Let her pick out what she likes and is comfortable in so she can be confident in her appearance at school.

Social Aspects

Lastly, talk to her about the social aspects of middle school. The best advice I can give my daughter is to always be nice to everyone, even if they are mean to you. However, help her understand what bullying is and what to do if she is being bullied. Talk to her about dating and if there are any guidelines you would like to set with her as far as boys go. Help her come up with ways to react during certain situations like if she finds out a boy likes her. American Girl has that explores subject like middle school, boys, friendship troubles, and staying home alone. I find they are a wonderful resource for young girls and can help create a dialog between you and her about tricky subjects.

Talk To Her

When school starts, set aside a few minutes each day to talk to her. Ask specific questions like, “Who did you eat lunch with today?” and, “How do you think you did on your exam?” Even though your daughter is almost as tall as you, and may start wearing makeup, remember that she is still your little girl with ringlets, who wants nothing more than to be loved and held in your arms.

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