SIX WAYS TO STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR SIXTH GRADER
Welcome to the middle-school years! The days when you spent every waking moment caring for your child’s needs are long gone. Now, you’ll have to intentionally nurture your relationship to maintain your close bond over the next 52 weeks.
Here are six ideas for staying connected to your sixth grader by showing up and showing them “Who Cares.”
1 • LISTEN
As your child matures and gains independence, it’s more important than ever to truly listen to them. Strike up conversations during meal times, driving to and from school or activities, and at bedtime. Put down your digital devices and pay attention to what your sixth grader likes and dislikes it may change every day!
2 • SHARE
Stories not only help instill a bigger perspective on life, they also bring us closer together. Share some of your favorite books, movies, or TV shows with your sixth grader to boost their development while also strengthening your relationship. Sharing your family history is a great way to teach life lessons and impart a sense of identity and belonging.
3 • VOLUNTEER
Instead of just sharing stories with your sixth grader, why not live your own stories together? Volunteering alongside your preteen is a great way to teach them about someone else’s story, encouraging a sense of empathy and generosity, while spending precious time together serving the community.
4 • CELEBRATE
Celebrate the little victories in your child’s life! If they earn their first “A” or clean their room without asking, do something extra special to show you’re proud of them, like cooking their favorite meal or having an impromptu dance party. Also, inject a little excitement into the everyday by celebrating fun holidays like National Donut Day or Hamburger Month.
5 • INSPIRE
Middle schoolers are often inspired by song lyrics, quotes, or Scripture. Think about quotes that resonate with you and discover creative ways to share them with your sixth grader. Leave sticky notes in their lunch or on their bathroom mirror Frame words of wisdom for their bedroom wall. Text lyrics or songs to your child to inspire them throughout the day.
6 • PRAY
Sixth grade is a tumultuous time in a child’s life when they face an emotional rollercoaster, raging hormones, and tough moral decisions. Praying together as a family not only helps maintain a strong connection to your sixth grader as they wade into the real world for the first time, it helps kids stay engaged in their personal faith journey.
