Well, it's the big time.  Your child is starting 6th grade or perhaps they are beginning their Senior year in high school.  Both students must adjust to moving between classes, having several different teachers, juggling many different classroom assignments, dressing for P.E. and showering in public, increasing peer pressure, using school lockers and carrying tons of books.  And of course, the Seniors are applying for college, thinking about the future (most are just thinking about Friday night), starting a part-time job, learning to drive, and managing "Senioritis."  Whether 6th grade or 12th grade or somewhere in between, going to their Back-to-School Night will give you critical insights into their daily challenges and the expectations placed upon them.

I hope you had a chance to read What You Learn At Back-to-School Night in Elementary School as it gives you some idea of what to expect.  In addition, you will be able to meet each of your student's teachers as you travel from class to class in the five minute time slots provided.  You will have about 20 minutes in each class, which gives you just enough time to get the teacher's contact information, introduce yourself as "Johnny's mother or father" and let the teacher know they can contact you at any time if they have concerns.  Aside from that you will have to set up an appointment with them for further discussion as there just isn't enough time at Back-to-School Nights to speak at length.

Be a hero!  Every teacher will have one or two (or more) items on their Wish List.  Find out what they need and help where you can to provide it. 

You are part of "the team" that will help your teenager succeed in grades six through 12.  It is important that your student know you met their teachers.  Share your initial thoughts about their classroom and the subject matter they will be learning.  Having met their teachers you will have a mental picture when, and if,  your child starts to complain about a particular situation.  You will have some "adult" perspective and be able to re-direct their frustration or suggest options that they may want to pursue.

With every year you will be able to let go just a little bit more.  Your student will become more self-reliant and you will become more of a "trusted advisor."  Attending their Back-to-School Nights can help you develop into that role, one year at a time.



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Stumble It!
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by Laura Breite -  Mothering Guide
San Diego, CA
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Editors and publishers are free to reprint this article as long as it's reprinted in its entirety and the signature line remains intact.

Please direct a courtesy copy to laurabreite@mac.com or snail mail it to:
Laura Breite
www.MotheringGuide.com
13422 Sawtooth Rd
San Diego, CA 92129