A Middle Schooler’s Plea to Parents

I read a great book called "Planet Middle School" and learned a lot about how to help my middle schooler through this time in his life.

I am a huge fan of Dr. Kevin Leman, and I really enjoyed one of his most recent publications. It's called "Planet Middle School: Helping Your Child through Peer Pressure, Awkward Moments, and Emotional Drama."

I highly suggest that you read this book if you have a middle schooler (boy or girl). In the meantime, here are Dr. Leman's 10 Commandments to Parents from their Middle Schoolers:

1. Let me spread my wings and try to fly, but keep me from falling too far.

2. Don't tell me what to do. Allow me to sort things out on my own.

3. Expect the best from me, trust me, and believe in me. Deep down I really want to please you.

4. Love me even when I mess up, and give me another chance. Sometimes I need to learn the hard way, but I will learn from my mistakes.

5. Talk WITH me instead of AT me, and listen...always.

6. Say "Forgive me" when you're wrong, and you'll have my loyalty and gratitude forever.

7. Tell me what I did wrong, but never criticize me.

8. Realize I'm doing the best I can in a tough, intense world. I appreciate the freedoms you give me and the stop signs you place along the way, because they keep me safe. Thank you for teaching me the difference between right and wrong.

9. Accept me for who I am...and who I am becoming.

10. Never forget how important you are to me. Even when I seemingly blow you off, I love you and need you in my life.