Questions & Answers

     
Middle school is new territory with new stuff to deal with…sometimes it’s helpful to just get some new ideas. If you have a question you would like answered send it in.   If you have dealt with a situation successfully and can add an idea of how to handle it send it in.

1. Why do we have to have homework?

  • To practice class work.
  • We should have class work instead of homework.

2.  How do I make new friends?

  • Think about who you would like to be friends with. Look for an opportunity to say hi to them, smile and be friendly. Perhaps give them a compliment. Invite them to sit with you at lunch, or invite them to do something after school.

  • Think up some conversation starters. Sometimes the hardest part of talking to someone new is just getting started. It could be as simple as “ Hi, I’m John, you’re in my History class…do you know when that report is due? How is yours going?” 

  • Join a group or team. Find a group where kids are doing something that interests you, practice socializing here with these new people and get to know them over this shared interest. 

  • Start a group. Do you have an interest that you think others will share; ask a favorite teacher or the principal, or your Pastor, or a counselor, or a parent, to help you start a group around that activity.

  • Be sure to take care of yourself, clean cloths, regular showers, brush teeth…then go smile at someone and say hi.
3. I’m being bullied at school, but I don’t want to make a big deal about it...how can I just handle it?
  • Just ignore bullies if you can…walk right by.

  • Tell an adult if you feel unsafe, or overwhelmed. Teachers, principals, parents, and lunchroom personnel at school can all help stop bullying.

  • Avoid being alone with the bully. Use the buddy system – buddy up with friends on the bus, at recess, wherever you think you might encounter a bully.

  • Act brave, try to stay in control, don’t get angry or cry if you can manage it. Bullies are often just trying to get a reaction, so if you don’t react it’s no fun for them, and they stop bullying.

  • Turn the bully comment around, or turn it into a joke, or just blow it off. If the bully comment is “That’s a stupid shirt” You might say…“Thanks, I’m glad you like it.” Or just say… “Whatever.”

4.  I did the stupidest thing at school today, I’m so embarrassed.  I don’t want to go back tomorrow or ever, what should I do?

  • Keep moving forward like it never happened.

  • Try to see it in a humorous way, and laugh about it along with anyone that might be laughing. If you can learn to laugh at your own mistakes, you won’t be embarrassed long, because you’ll be to busy cracking up; this turns an embarrassing moment into a funny story

  • Try to pretend like it’s no big deal to you…and soon it will be forgotten by all.

5.  Can the kids get bussed to the YMCA after school

  • Yes the kids can get bussed from both MSS and MSN on days that school is in session.