The Junior High Survival Guide

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You thought the “terrible twos” phase was the most challenging time of your parenting journey. . .that is, until your kid became a Junior High schooler. As soon as your kid entered the 7th grade, it was as if a switch inside of them flipped — maybe your once-patient kid became extremely short tempered or your previously agreeable child started picking fights with you and everyone else every chance they got.

How do we know? Because Junior High parents & guardians everywhere are experiencing the same things in real time.

It’s during this phase of seventh and eighth grade, when your kid starts to zero in on how they see themselves, how they see the world, and how they fit inside that world view. They’re working really hard to discover their uniqueness and find where they fit in the world, and with that path to discovery comes a lot of tension.

Sometimes, it feels like you’re merely surviving: You want so desperately to encourage your kid to be themselves, but you also want to establish boundaries and let them know that sometimes, their behavior just isn’t OK. First, take a deep breath and remember this: You are in a phase right now, and the primary characteristic of a phase is that it doesn’t last forever.

Next, consider your important role in your kid’s life at this point. Your kid is very self-conscious during this time in their lives, and they’ll be looking for validation, and it’s best if it comes from you. You can affirm them by acknowledging their positive qualities and strengths and inviting other caring adults into their life to heap on the encouragement. In short, your kid needs a whole squad of biggest fans.

We know this season is hard, but you are not without support — we are with you every step of the way.

Below are featured resources to help guide you through the Junior High School Stage

For the First-time Junior High School Parent/Guardian:

• You’re Not as Cool as TikTok, but You Can Be Just as Influential on Your Child
• 7 Undeniable Characteristics of Junior Schoolers Parents Should Know
• 4 Conversations to Have Before Junior High School Starts
• 3 Ways to Connect With Your Kid at Any Phase

For the Parent/Guardian Who is Overwhelmed by the Newness of This Phase:

• How to Not Embarrass Your Teen
• Every Junior High Schooler Is Asking You a Question. Do You Know the Answer?
• 6 Ways to Help Your Junior High Schooler Develop Positive Body Image
• 4 Questions to Ask When You Notice a Shift In Your Child’s Behavior
• It’s Just A Phase . . . Don’t Miss It

For the Parent/Guardian Who is Worried About Hard Conversations:

• Helping My Junior High Schooler Manage Their Emotions
• How to Build a Bridge Back to Your Kid After an Argument
• When and How to Talk to My Child About Pornography
• The Most Important Minutes We Often Miss
• I’m Worried My Child Is Self-Harming

Phase Guide Book Series

• The Parenting Your… books: an 18-part series to help you parent your child through every year. Available individually, or in bundles.

Original info and resources found at Parent Cue