The transition from middle school to high school can be challenging for many students. High school is a time of increased academic rigor, social pressures, and new responsibilities. As one of Orlando’s leading private schools, we understand how it is important to prepare your 8th graders for high school. Every student deserves to have a successful and fulfilling experience! Here are some tips on how to prepare 8th graders for high school.

Emphasize time management skills

High school requires students to manage their time effectively to balance academics, extracurricular activities, and social life. Encourage 8th graders to develop good time management habits such as setting goals, creating schedules, and prioritizing tasks.

Encourage independence

High school is a time for students to become more independent and responsible for their own education. Encourage 8th graders to take ownership of their learning by asking questions, seeking help, and advocating for themselves.

Develop study skills

High school coursework is more demanding than middle school, so it’s important to develop good study habits early. Teach 8th graders effective study skills such as note-taking, active reading, and test-taking strategies. At Lake Forrest Prep, we instill healthy study skills in our students before they reach 8th grade. However, all of these skills are great to practice and implement in the home!

Foster good communication skills

High school involves working with a variety of people, such as teachers, counselors, and peers. Encourage your student to focus on good communication skills such as active listening, asking questions, and expressing themselves clearly and respectfully.

Promote healthy habits

High school can be stressful, and that stress can often lead to unhealthy habits sneaking in if healthy ones aren’t already formed. Getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, and engaging in physical activity are critical to establish early on. Encourage 8th graders to prioritize their health and well-being now and they’re more likely to continue that once high school starts.

Encourage exploration

For middle schoolers, high school can seem like this place where everyone has to double-down on what they’re good at. However, high school is a great time for students to explore their interests and passions! Encourage 8th graders to try new things, join clubs, and participate in extracurricular activities to find their niche. They don’t have to be locked into the same things they did in middle school.

Talk about the “big” standardized tests

From SAT to ACT, high school involves taking more standardized tests than most middle schoolers understand. Encourage 8th graders to start preparing early by taking practice tests, studying test-taking strategies, and familiarizing themselves with the format of the tests.

Foster a growth mindset

High school involves facing challenges and setbacks, so it’s important to foster a growth mindset in 8th graders. Growth mindsets might sound like jargon, but it really means to look at an obstacle and see it as a way to learn, build and move on. Encourage them to embrace challenges, learn from their mistakes, and believe in their ability to improve.

Preparing 8th graders for high school involves developing important skills and habits that will help them succeed academically and socially. At Lake Forrest Prep, we prepare our 8th graders to be exceptional high schoolers (and beyond). If you’re interested in a school that invests in your child’s success, schedule a tour with us!