Social Emotional LessonsMiddle school is a major transitional stage in your child’s life. Our goal as counselors is to support them in the areas of academic, career and personal/social development so that they may become college, career, and life ready.
Guidance Contacts:
Grade 5th and 6th: Charles Murphy crmurphy@pasco.k12.fl.us
Grade 4th and 7th Grade: Sara Colon scuadrad@pasco.k12.fl.us
Book time with Michele Renee Basu
Services Provided:
New Student Scheduling
Academic Advising
Classroom Social Emotional Lessons
Individual Counseling and Consultation
Small Group Counseling
Crisis Counseling
Section 504
Tips for parents:
Listen and Communicate well with your child
Most middle school children express that their parents do not listen to them. They often describe their parents as the “yeller” or “the uh-uh” parent. This type of listening/communication style creates a barrier between you and your child.
- When your child is speaking, make eye contact and actively listen (this lets them know that they have your undivided attention).
- Engage your child by asking questions (this reassures them that you are listening and interested).
- HELP them come up with positive solutions (This is critical for problem solving)
Maintain structure and be consistent
Children who know what to expect on a day to day basis, cope better with life’s ups and downs.
- Expectations in your home should be clear and concise (make your bed & pick up your clothes/toys off the floor VS. clean your room)
- Consequences need to be immediate and age appropriate (lack of follow through will result in continued negative behaviors)
- Give advanced warning or offer choices to the child (avoid making threats).
- Have a routine (children thrive on stability and predictability)
Manage gaming, social networking, internet use
Majority of middle school students do not have the emotional maturity to handle the issues that arise on social media. They are bombarded with negative messages constantly and this ultimately effects their academic/social/and emotional functioning.
- Assess your child’s maturity and determine if they are ready for social media (Most middle school children are not).
- Set ground rules and monitor accounts constantly.
- Limit time on internet.
- Revoke internet privileges if your child is not able to use it appropriately.
Utilize School website to monitor assignments, grades and attendance.
We are living in an age where most information is at your fingertips. You are able to access information about your child’s academic success via MYSTUDENT. This will help you understand your child’s successes and challenges.
- https://www.pasco.k12.fl.us/parents
- scroll down to this link and click
- contact the help desk at 727-774-2000
Acceptance, Respect, and Love
Acceptance, respect, and love are the most crucial of all. Treat your child with the same respect as you would an adult. Show your child you accept them and love them unconditionally.
Additional support staff:
Ms. Justice, Registar
Ms. Marley, School Psychologist
Ms. Elrod, Compliance Resource Teacher
Ms. Wellman, ESE Secretary
Ms. Shook, School Social Workers
Mrs. Bolster Social Services Coordinator /Attendance
Ms. Sweet, School Nurse
