Do you, like me, have a middle schooler who might be a tad reluctant to read a book like this? Especially when given by you? After all, we’re their parents, right?… therefore know pretty much nothing. I know how it goes! :-)
Here’s a list of tips for parents to discreetly encourage their preteen to read and apply the information from Survive & Thrive in Middle School:
1. Frame It as a Gift, Not an Assignment
Wrap the book as a gift for a milestone, like the start of middle school. Add a note saying something like, “I saw this and thought it might make your middle school adventure even more awesome!” This keeps it casual and avoids making it feel like homework.
2. Leave It in a Casual Spot
Place the book in a place where the child is likely to pick it up without pressure—like their bathroom, their nightstand, or even in the car. Curiosity may lead them to open it on their own.
3. Highlight Relatable or Fun Sections
Mark a funny or intriguing part of the book with a sticky note and write, “This reminded me of you!” This gives them a reason to open it and possibly continue reading.
4. Make It Part of a “Middle School Survival Kit”
Package the book with other middle school essentials like fun pens, a planner, or locker decorations. Present it as a toolkit for success, making the book seem like a valuable resource rather than a chore.
5. Model Interest
Leave the book where they can see you reading it and casually mention, “I wish I had this when I was your age!” or “This part really made me think of middle school.” Your interest might make them curious enough to explore it themselves.
6. Tie It to a Privilege or Experience
Offer the book as a companion to something exciting, like a shopping trip for school supplies or a new backpack, saying, “This book has some cool tips to make middle school even better.” Linking it to a fun event makes it more appealing.
7. Involve Their Friends
Suggest the book to other parents whose kids are also transitioning to middle school. If their peers are reading it, your child may feel more inclined to join in, especially if it sparks conversation.
8. Connect It to Their Interests
If your child enjoys activities like journaling or drawing, encourage them to interact with the book by adding their own notes or doodles. Suggest they use the book as a personal guide or workbook. (See the action checklists and reflection questions on my website which you can use as discussion starters, personal challenges or … any way you want!)
9. Use Humor or Curiosity
Tease the content lightly, saying something like, “There’s this one part about handling drama—I bet you’d think it’s hilarious!” Humor can make them more likely to dive in.
10. Avoid Overhyping It
Avoid statements like, “You need to read this,” which can make the book feel like an obligation. Instead, keep it low-pressure and casual. Phrases like, “Check it out whenever you feel like it,” put the control in their hands.
The key is to make the book feel like a helpful, fun, or interesting tool rather than something they have to read. A mix of subtlety, curiosity, and a personal connection can go a long way!