Raising kids who are prepared to thrive in the world can be a lot to navigate.
Whether your family’s road is straight or winding, we’re here to help you know what to expect — and find joy in the journey.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

We love partnering with students’ families to provide support and encouragement when you need it.

Contact your child’s teacher — or reach out to the office — any time you have questions about your child’s behavior, learning or experience at school.

Larned Middle School
904 Corse Ave.
Larned, KS 67550
Phone: (620) 285-8430

STAGES AND PHASES TO EXPECT

Here are a few of the behaviors, attitudes and experiences that are common among middle school students.

  • The middle school years are all about exploration. It is often an exciting — and vulnerable — time for students. Casual conversations in the car or during mealtimes can help families stay connected.

  • Raising kids takes a village! Getting to know your child’s friends and/or friends’ families can help build a positive network for you and your child.

  • Moment to moment, it’s common for middle schoolers to alternate between confident and optimistic and angry and hopeless.

  • From changing classes to building relationships with multiple teachers, middle school students are learning to manage a new level of independence at school.

  • During these years, students often have a strong desire to help their community or improve the world in some way.

LEARNING AT HOME

The middle school years can challenge families. This is also a time to explore where self-confidence can grow!

  • Students are learning to adjust to different teaching styles and personalities throughout the day. Reminders of patience and grace can help.

    ·

  • Parents can name and model their core values, such as honesty or respect for others, to provide guidance and clarity in this stage of growth.

  • Students may come home feeling frustrated by things that happened at school. Listening without trying to “fix” or solve the problem can be hard, but it is often helpful.

  • As unpredictable as moods and attitudes might be, casual family time offers middle schoolers a chance to just be themselves. Inviting them to ride along on an errand, go for a short walk or join you for a movie in the family room — even if they decline the invitation — can make a difference.

LEARNING AT SCHOOL

We love working with middle school kids. Trying new activities can be a powerful way to explore personal strengths and areas for growth.

  • We strengthen personal responsibility and teamwork skills with a mix of independent, small group and large group activities.

  • Students increase organizational skills, which can make a big difference in middle school and beyond.

  • Planning for the future begins as students identify personal strengths and interests.

  • Students begin to learn the difference their mindset makes in learning, as well reaching their goals.

  • Students practice conflict management when friendships shift. They become clearer about personal values in decisions and setting boundaries.