A question that I often hear from new middle school parents is, “How can I prepare my child for middle school?” One of the first things that comes to mind when I answer this question is to help your child to learn to be resilient. As parents, we’d like to wrap our children in our arms and insulate them from every misfortune, but unfortunately, that isn’t possible , and that wouldn't prepare them to succeed. Young people live up or down to expectations we set for them. They need adults who believe in them unconditionally and hold them to the high expectations of being compassionate, generous, and creative.

So, what do children need in order to learn to be resilient?

• Give children opportunities to grapple with problems in order to develop important skills , allowing children to feel competent. We undermine competence when we don't allow children to recover themselves after a fall.
• Young people need confidence to learn to navigate the world, think outside the box, and recover from challenges.
• Connections with other people, schools, and communities offer young people the security that allows them to stand on their own and develop creative solutions.
• Young people need a clear sense of right and wrong and a commitment to integrity.
• Young people who contribute to the well-being of others will receive gratitude rather than condemnation. They will learn that contributing feels good and may therefore more easily turn to others, and do so without shame.
• Young people who possess a variety of healthy coping strategies will be less likely to turn to dangerous quick fixes when stressed.
• Young people who understand privileges and respect are earned through demonstrated responsibility will learn to make wise choices and feel a sense of control.

As we enter the last few weeks of school, it is important to recognize that we are succeeding in getting through the challenges of this year. We have adapted to our new routines, helped support our families and community, and found new ways to connect with friends and loved ones.

The finish line for remote learning is in sight. As we cheer our students on and encourage them to stay the course, we are empowering them as we help to build their confidence, competence, and resiliency.