Tend to basic needs first!
Did you know Middle Schoolers are very emotional and experience crazy mood swings at times? Before your react, stop and ask....
Are you hungry? (These growing kids can eat all day it seems and boy do they get hangry!)
Are you angry? (Give them a safe place to vent/blow off some steam as long as they remain respectful and safe!)
Are you lonely? (Take a walk together or run an errand with them. Sometimes they just need some alone time with you! )
Are you tired? (Kids need 10 hours of sleep and of course many aren't getting that. Find some ways to help them rest and unplug for awhile. Big kids need power naps too.)
Sometimes the best conversations occur after these needs are met. So the next time your child is experiencing a meltdown or fit of rage, ask these questions and that may help them regulate before a good conversation can occur.
Of course we need to do this for ourselves as well. How many times have you gotten home from work and realized you hadn't had anything to eat or drink all day? I know I have. Don't forget to take care of yourself too!
