How do I help my child to thrive in sixth grade?

1. Write it down!!!

Teach them to write down important reminders (notebook, sticky notes, planner, calendars, or (Google Keep.). Fear and anxiety put our brains in a bad place for learning. To reduce stress, help your child learn how to write down important reminders, due dates, etc. 

2. Make sure they turn in all their work. 

The easiest way to do this is to get a notification whenever they miss an assignment or get a low grade. Step-by-step directions for setting up notifications in GCS Backpack 

3. . Celebrate their successes!!

Whatever behavior gets the most attention (negative or positive) wins. To get more responsibility and independence, praise your child's efforts along the way. Let me know your child's favorite treats so I can reward them too!

4.  Organization, Organization, Organization!! 

It's a hard skill to learn but it is a necessary lifeskill for any path in life. Help them organize their work so they can learn to do it on their own soon. These type of binders work best for middle school: