Page 15 - North State Parent August 2020

Middle School Teaches Valuable Life Lessons
side. The conflict may not resolve itself every time, but the chances to learn and grow are there.
Note: bullying is a form of conflict that is never okay. Parents should al- ways talk to a teacher or trusted adult about bullying and be involved with your school to create and promote a safe environment for everyone.
Middle school teaches self-acceptance. I still remember when a boy made fun of my butt in eighth grade, taunting me that it was flat compared to the other girls. But the truth? My less than curvaceous derriere didn’t both- er me. It still doesn’t, even in a Kim Kardashian world. Middle school is when you get to decide what you like or accept about yourself, regardless of what others think.
Middle school shows you what a true friend looks like. Middle school friendships can be sources of comfort and support, but they also can be sources of pain and confusion. Did your supposed best friend reject you this week? Learn from it and choose someone kinder to be in your life. Middle school teaches you that you deserve friends that treat you well, friends that encourage you rather than tear you down.
So as my daughter heads towards a new adventure in middle school, I will be there to remind her that the lessons and experiences of middle school, although they may be hard or uncomfortable, will mold her, not crush her. school will teach her to become resilient, embrace change, deal with conflict, accept herself, and learn what makes a true friend. Ó
Katy M. Clark is a writer and mom of two. While her own experience in middle school was awkward, her oldest child seemed to handle it just fine and she hopes her youngest does, too. Katy celebrates her imper- fections as a mom on her blog Experienced Bad Mom.
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