It is the best of times; it is the worst of times. Middle school is a rite of passage that brings with it new friends, new academic challenges, and — of course — puberty.
The transition from tween to teen is simultaneously thrilling (the independence!) and terrifying, particularly for kids with attention deficit disorder (ADHD — formerly called ADD) or learning disabilities who fear they will fall behind in school, attract unwanted attention in the cafeteria, or be forced to navigate a gaggle of Heathers.Here is a list of the daily obstacles that face students (and their parents) in middle school — and what you can do to help a child with ADHD or LD arrive prepared and confident on Day One.[Self-Test: Could Your Tween Have an Executive Function Deficit?]The jump from one primary teacher to six or more specialized teachers — and their far-flung classrooms, uncoordinated assignment schedules, and unique rules — is rough for most new middle school students.
This transition is particularly difficult for children with ADHD who struggle with executive functions, planning, and organization.
For kids with weak impulse control, mastering the expectations of one teacher is hard enough — now, they will face new class rules every hour.Maintain relationships with all of your child’s teachers — not just the ones teaching her core subjects — and discuss strategies that have helped your child in the past.
Read more on additudemag.com