Incoming 6th-Grade Families

Starting middle school is a big step! At Richfield Middle School, we understand this can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking time for students and families. Keep in mind that middle school is practice for high school, and learning from missteps and growing are all part of the process. Here are a few tips to help ease the transition and set your child up for success.

1. Talk About What’s Changing

Middle school brings more supported independence, new teachers and a rotating schedule. Talk with your child about what to expect and remind them that it’s okay to feel a little nervous. Encourage open conversations about what they’re looking forward to and what they might be worried about. Remind them that many, if not all, of the students are feeling similarly. Here are some good questions to get the conversation started:

• What are you most excited about for middle school?
• Is there anything you’re feeling nervous or unsure about?
• What do you think will be the biggest difference between elementary and middle school?
• What are you hoping your teachers will be like?
• How do you feel about having a different teacher for each subject?
• Are there any clubs or sports you’re thinking about joining?
• What would help you feel more confident on the first day?
• How do you want me to support you this year? (More reminders? Fewer check-ins?)
• What’s one goal you have for yourself this school year?

2. Practice Self-Advocacy

Middle schoolers are expected to take more responsibility for their learning. Help your child build confidence in asking questions, reaching out to teachers and speaking up when they need help. These skills will serve them well in middle school and in life! It may be helpful to practice or role play some of these skills at home as well. Here are a few tips to offer:

• It’s okay to ask questions. If something doesn’t make sense in class, raise your hand, ask your teacher after class or send them an email later. Asking questions helps you learn! Want to practice what to say? Try this: “I’m confused about the homework—can you explain it?” or “I’m falling behind. Can you help me figure out what to do?”
• Make it a habit to check your school Gmail and Schoology portal. It’s the best way to stay on top of assignments and messages from your teachers.
• Keep track of your assignments. Whether you use a notebook, an app or a calendar, writing things down will help you stay organized and feel more in control.

3. Stay Involved (Even as They Pull Away)

Your middle schooler may act like they don’t need you, but they do. As they gain more independence, staying involved (in ways that respect their growing autonomy) can make a big difference in their confidence and success. Here are some ways to stay connected and supportive:

• Attend the RMS Open House in August. Walk through the school together, try out the locker, find classrooms and meet teachers. Helping your child feel familiar with the building can ease first-day nerves.
• Go to conferences in the fall and spring. Hearing directly from teachers gives you a fuller picture of how your child is doing academically, socially, and emotionally, and shows your child that you care about their education.
• Show up for their events. Whether it’s a band concert, choir performance, theater production or sports game, your presence matters. It shows them that what they’re doing is important to you, too.
• Check in—beyond “How was your day?” Try questions like:
  • What was the best part of your day?
  • Did anything surprise you today?
  • What’s something you’re working on in class right now?
  • Who did you hang out with at lunch?
  • What is one new thing you learned today?
• Keep up with Schoology together. Set a regular time each week to check grades and assignments. This can help your child stay on track and shows that you’re a team.
• Support daily routines. Help them build habits like charging their iPad overnight, getting enough sleep, setting aside homework time and packing their backpack the night before. These small routines lead to big success.
• Respect their space—but stay available. Sometimes the best conversations happen during a car ride, while cooking dinner or before bed. Be ready when they are.

4. Encourage Healthy Habits

Middle schoolers do their best when they’re well-rested, well-fed, and moving their bodies. At Richfield, we support the whole child, and you can help build strong habits at home with these simple tips:

• Prioritize Sleep. Aim for 8–10 hours of sleep each night, keep a consistent bedtime and limit screens before bed.
• Eat Balanced Meals. Don’t skip breakfast and plan meals and snacks with plenty of fruits, veggies and protein.
• Keep Moving. Encourage 30 minutes of daily activity, including walking, biking, dancing or playing outside.
• Care for Mental Health. Check in emotionally by asking your child how they’re really doing. Help them balance school, activities, screen time and rest.
• Set Boundaries Online. Talk with your child about what’s appropriate to post and share online, know what apps they’re using and who they’re interacting with and set screen-free times (like during meals or before bed) to help them recharge.

5. Connect with Us

We’re here for you! Reach out to teachers, counselors or the main office whenever you have questions. And be sure to follow Richfield Middle School on Facebook for updates and events throughout the year. Here are some links to help you stay connected:

• ParentSquare
• Facebook
• Contact Us
• Student Support Services
• Counseling Office