My oldest started Jr High last year. I was just as worried as you. It's like they're starting school for the first time because we all know it's a total different thing at each level! My son was totally fine and now in the 8th grade and next year he'll be in high school... my worries are coming back. Just do deep breathing exercises and talk to your son. If you notice any drastic changes in his behavior talk to the school. Good Luck!

My Daughter started middle school last week. let me tell you I was so stressed and worried about all the things you had mentioned. And to my surprise she just loves it.
I was stressing over gym and her having to change in
the locker rm but after the first day she is ok with it.
When I pick up everyday she talks for an hour straight
about her day, teachers, lunch, the kids she met.
I am so happy for her.
So maybe it is us as mothers who worry too much,But
that is our job after all.
Good luck to you and your son.

I know what you mean. I too feel the same. My son went from being an A student to now wanting to quit school!. I have a feeling someone is bulling him. You know they said that if a child doen't want to go to school, there is a reason! He won't tell me. I have made an appt w/the counselor. He is NOT the same boy at all. I don't know what they've done to him. I'm so worried.

My youngest just finished middle school, and I have been teaching in middle schools for 12 years. The move to middle school is scary for parents, more than for kids, because there is a wider field of adults to deal with, as well as the flux of changing classes, lockers, and the maturation of children. The stakes seems higher, but kids adapt quickly and easily, for the most part. Parents, especially single parents who work, want to be able to envision their children in a safe, warm environment with a teacher and a constant set of friends. Middle school does not allow that. It is a swirl of changing classes, hallway encounters, and multiple teachers. Kids get used to it, then enjoy it. Enjoy your child's new independence.

im also a single parent with an 11y/o entering middle. I feel the same anxiety you are feeling. Ive been told that as long as I communicate with my child everyday and try to stay involved with the school everything will be ok. You hear a lot of horror stories about middle shcool..but I think if u are a good parent and have taught your child well, they will be fine. I pray that my son and your son will have a great first year in middle school.

a lot comunication with your child
always talk

Not every scenario is going to happen to every child. You must remember there are tens of thousands of people on this website, so with that many people in one place, you're bound to encounter nearly every issue possible. Also, remember, the people who post are usually only the people who have problems, you're note likely to see people on the message boards telling about everything is positive and uneventful.

And the issues, many, are not "issues." Just things children encounter as they get older. Social networking sites, middle school academics, extra curriculars, etc. are not "issues" we are just on here to get advice on when allowing children to engage in certain activities are age appropriate.

You should enjoy these times, every new experience for your child is opportunity for growth, maturity, and a step toward becoming a productive adult who contributes positively to society.

Momonheels, remember to take one step at a time, middle school is not bad as it may seem on the forums, some families have different experience than others, about bullies, this is something we grow up with because it begins in nursery and even day care centers, yes middle school bullies and peers are somewhat stronger, but just remember to talk to your son each and everyday. When my son who has adhd went to Middle School I cried my eyes off, because I was also affraid and this fear was true, they teased him and made him do things he had never done before like take a knife to school, but I thank God as time went by he has over comed this fear of being bullied that now if anyone bothers him, he not only notifies me, but also his school principal and they take good further actions, .
Things will always happen no matter where our kids are, but these things and situations may teach them how to not only handle it but face their fears. You will do great, just think about all the new faces, friends and activities your son will do.
Become part of the PTO, this will also help you be relieved.

Hugs and Blessings to you, You guys will have fun with Middle School.

Jessie

You will get through it if you deal with what you have in front of you at that moment. One moment then one day at a time. You can't worry about what may or may not happen, you can only deal with what is known. So unless you develope ESP then don't focus on the big picture, focus on the moment.

It wouldn't hurt to develope some hobbies of your own to distract yourself a little.