7 Essential Messages Every Middle Schooler Needs to Hear

Help your middle schooler thrive with these 7 essential messages from a Christian author. Build their confidence, faith, and purpose for a bright future!

Middle school is a time of transition, growth, and discovery. It's a time when children are beginning to explore their identity and find their place in the world. As a parent, your role during this time is critical. You have the opportunity to help your child navigate the challenges of adolescence and build a strong foundation for the future. Here are some things every middle schooler needs to hear.

1. You Are Loved and Valued

Middle school can be a tough time for kids. They're trying to figure out who they are and where they fit in, and it's easy for them to feel like they don't measure up. That's why one of the most important things you can do is remind your child that they are loved and valued just the way they are.

The Bible teaches us that we are all fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). God created each of us with a unique purpose and plan, and He loves us unconditionally. When we understand that we are loved by God, it helps us to love ourselves and others.

2. You Have a Purpose

Middle school can feel like a time of aimlessness and confusion. But the truth is, your child has a purpose. They were created with gifts and talents that are meant to be used to make a difference in the world.

The apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 2:10, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Help your child discover their passions and strengths, and encourage them to use them to serve others.

3. You Are Capable of Great Things

Middle schoolers are often underestimated. But the truth is, they are capable of great things. They have the energy, creativity, and passion to make a real difference in the world.

In Philippians 4:13, Paul writes, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Help your child to see that they can accomplish anything they set their mind to with God's help.

4. Failure Is Part of the Learning Process

Middle schoolers are still learning and growing, and that means they're going to make mistakes. But it's important for them to understand that failure is part of the learning process. Instead of being discouraged by their mistakes, encourage them to learn from them and try again.

In Proverbs 24:16, we read, "For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again." Help your child see that failure is not the end of the road, but rather an opportunity to learn and grow.

5. Your Words and Actions Matter

Middle schoolers are beginning to see the impact their words and actions can have on others. It's important for them to understand that their words and actions matter, and that they have the power to build others up or tear them down.

In James 3:5-6, we read, "The tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell." Help your child see that their words have the power to either bring life or death, and encourage them to choose their words carefully.

6. You Can't Do It Alone

Middle schoolers are beginning to assert their independence, but it's important for them to understand that they can't do it alone. They need the support and guidance of adults who care about them.

In Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, we read, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." Encourage your child to build strong relationships with mentors, teachers, and other trusted adults who can help guide them through this challenging time.

7. You Are Not Defined by Your Circumstances

Middle schoolers are often faced with difficult circumstances, whether it's family problems, academic struggles, or social challenges. But it's important for them to understand that they are not defined by their circumstances. With God's help, they can overcome any obstacle.

In Romans 8:37, we read, "In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." Help your child see that they are not victims of their circumstances, but rather overcomers who can rise above any challenge.

Conclusion

Middle school is a time of transition, growth, and discovery. As a parent, you have the opportunity to help your child navigate the challenges of adolescence and build a strong foundation for the future. By reminding them that they are loved and valued, that they have a purpose, and that they are capable of great things, you can help them to face the challenges of middle school with confidence and hope.

FAQs

1. How can I help my middle schooler build strong relationships with mentors and other trusted adults?

Encourage your child to get involved in extracurricular activities that align with their interests and passions. This will give them the opportunity to meet adults who share their interests and can serve as mentors. You can also help your child identify teachers, coaches, or other adults who they admire and respect, and encourage them to reach out to these individuals for guidance and support.

2. What should I do if my middle schooler is struggling academically?

First, make sure your child is getting enough sleep, exercise, and healthy food. These factors can have a big impact on academic performance. You can also work with your child's teachers to identify areas where your child needs extra support, and explore tutoring or other academic resources to help them catch up.

3. How can I help my middle schooler build self-confidence?

Encourage your child to pursue activities that they enjoy and are good at. This will help them to feel a sense of accomplishment and build confidence. You can also help your child identify their strengths and talents, and encourage them to use these to serve others.

4. What should I do if my middle schooler is being bullied?

It's important to take bullying seriously and intervene as soon as possible. Talk to your child's teacher or school counselor, and work with them to develop a plan to address the situation. You can also help your child build resilience by reminding them of their worth and value, and encouraging them to build strong relationships with supportive peers and adults.

5. How can I help my middle schooler develop a strong faith foundation?

Encourage your child to read the Bible and pray regularly. You can also help them find a youth group or church community where they can grow in their faith and build relationships with other believers. Finally, model a strong faith foundation in your own life by living out your beliefs and values in front of your child.