How to Make the Transition to Middle School?

Education can be divided into three major sections: elementary, middle school/junior high and high school. Each of these phases is designed to give the student a solid foundation in the core subjects by using a different approach based on the mental and physical abilities of the individual. Elementary is taught with hard facts and black/white answers that can easily be memorized or found on the page in question. Towards the last couple of grades, homeschool material should start to transition the student away from this and into a more conceptual approach which requires them to think and develop their own opinions.

As a parent, it’s important to look at the 4th grade homeschool curriculum as the beginning of this process and understand that some adjustments may be needed. Prior to this grade, hands-on instruction either from the parent or the online teacher was the primary method because the student needed the guidance and direct interaction. In this grade, parents can help the student by allowing them to work more independently and make the determination when they need assistance. The online portal provides visibility into progress and grades so parents can step in if they feel that there is an issue but the online classes and organized curriculum should help the student follow a natural course of progression. Accountability gives the student the freedom to make their own choices knowing that they have a support system to help if needed.

The last grade of elementary is a year of excitement and preparing them to look forward to the next challenge of middle school and the 5th grade homeschool curriculum from the top online platforms is designed to help with this. The level of work required is a little more difficult than the year before so learning how to balance study, rest and a fun time is a task that involves both students and parents.  Every child is different in their physical development with some kids starting earlier than others so it is important to be in touch with your child and understand their needs. If their grades are starting to slip or there are mood changes, consider changing their schedule to allow for more rest and later start time to the day. The benefit of homeschooling is that the environment and education experience can be customized to each pre-teen to maximize their potential in completing the work and being a successful student.

This is also the time frame where sports and extra-curricular activities can become more prevalent with joining clubs and/or local school teams. It’s necessary to find a balance so that the student does not become overwhelmed with the transition and can easily handle the new workload going into 6th grade while still enjoying their hobbies and activities. Staying with a reliable online homeschool program is an option that can help students remain confident with their studies because they are familiar with the process and the information presented in the curriculum builds on itself so they have a solid foundation going forward.

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