I don't think we need to prepare our children for high school as much as we need to prepare ourselves.
We prepare them so much in elementary school and then again in junior high. I think High school just goes with the flow for them at that point.
My son is entering High school this September and I know that I am the one who is unprepared. I am unprepared for the incredibly difficult teen years and all the long talks that will need to be had. The much earned independence, the social lives, all the horrible things that come along with the social lives.
I truly feel that I am preparing myself much more than I am preparing him. Even that preparation has taken years. Years of getting to know his friends, of being the house that everyone comes too. Years of late night homework, talks of responsibility, the importance of grades. Why we should do what we know is right and not what other people are doing, just to look cool.
Years of educating our children in the way we hope they will grow up to be. For so many the empty nest begins in college. I really think that it starts in high school. Our children figure out so much of who they are in high school. Their future begins to get determined while they are in high school. This is the time where we as parents have to let go a bit, sit back and watch. We become the guides and no longer the teachers. We have taught our children all of their skills already. We need to trust that we have done a good job and fully believe that they have been good students.
High school is a scary place, more for parents than fir kids. They are entering with all of their friends, they already know how to change classes, their study skills are what they are... For us parents, the fear sets in. Sex, drugs, parties, drinking, click and sports. We wonder where they will fit in, will they fit in. Will they be strong and will we know.
The only way to truly prepare for high school is to maintain an open relationship. Be willing to listen and actually hear. And guide them through it all. Be there to pick up the pieces and to celebrate to successes.
High school is the beginning of them. This is our chance to help them shine. With our guidance and love, high school will bring great memories that they can cherish. I believe that I have given my son all the instruction that he needs to succeed. I just need to help nudge a little bit to make sure he maintains the correct path. High school should be an enjoyable experience for all involved.
