Transitions in the academic journey
Transitions are a huge part of students’ educational experiences; whether that be transitioning from preschool to kindergarten, elementary school to middle school, middle to high school, or high school to college. This time of change can be intimidating for both students and their families.
One of the major transitions throughout a student’s academic journey is that of going from elementary to middle school. For many students, this is the first time that they will be changing classrooms for each subject, having multiple different teachers and sets of classmates. If the student is going to a new school campus, this can present an array of new challenges as well.
With many questions on how to best help your child make the big move, ASU Preparatory Academy created a video providing more in-depth information on what this transition is like. They provide resources and strategies that families can utilize in order to make this transition as smooth and positive for their students as possible.
Even for children further along in their academic journey, moving grades levels and specifically tackling the jump from middle school to high school, can be a delicate time. Child Mind Institute shared an article by Molly Hagan, also available in Spanish, that highlights the significance of going from middle to high school, along with providing families with strategies and resources to help their students thrive during this important milestone.
Families and their students can work together to ensure a smooth transition into high school by:
- Developing and practicing their morning routine
- Utilizing time management skills
- Establishing a healthy sleep schedule
- Practicing self-advocacy
- Taking time to reflect on and celebrate previous accomplishments
- Practicing taking time for themselves to improve their mental health
Along with these resources, families are also encouraged to talk together about what their upcoming concerns, questions, plans and goals are for the upcoming school year.