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3 back-to-school tips you didn't know you needed

Welcome back to Elevated Adolescence - this is our 2nd season - a full calendar school year, week after week Thank you for being on this ride with me!

It's hard to believe it, people, but Summer is basically over, school is (almost) here for some, or in my family's case - it's started. And, exciting news: I'm officially a middle school mama so I'm experiencing all the roller coaster feelings and layers this stage brings all the time.

One thing I know for sure is that the schools and stores do not really help you prep for back-to-middle school in a way that moves the needle and makes a difference in your life. That's why I wanted to produce today's podcast - because I want you to finish listening with possibly an a-ha moment, or some relief as you launch into this year.

I've got your back, parents.

Research shows year after year, that early adolescence (aka middle school) is the most challenging stage of motherhood, so it's no surprise you want or need peace.

A lot of conventional back-to-school advice focuses on what I call the to-do's and to-get's:

• School supplies

• School schedule

• Teachers - their requirements and systems

• After school activities

All the surface / external stuff can be important for your middle schooler's success - and to feel somewhat prepared...but it's not nearly as important as what's happening on the inside of the hearts and minds of both of you.

So, here are 3 unconventional tips essential to back-to-school prep and success as a middle school parent:

1. Embrace Failure

2. Make Integrity Integral

3. Stop Doing So Much

Listen to the full episode for why each of these tips are important and examples of how you and your middle schooler can start to practice them!

Like what you hear? Keep listening to the Elevated Adolescence Podcast