Middle School Matters: The 10 Key Skills Kids Need to Thrive in Middle School and Beyond—And How Parents Can Help

Middle School Matters by Phyllis L. Fagell offers a refreshing perspective on the transformative middle school years, often overlooked or dismissed as an awkward phase. In this insightful guide, Fagell, a professional counselor and Washington Post contributor, highlights grades 6-8 as a critical developmental stage for building character, confidence, and essential life skills.

Blending personal experience, professional expertise, and advice from psychologists, educators, and middle schoolers, Fagell provides actionable strategies to help parents and caregivers guide their children through this transitional period. The book emphasizes teaching 10 key skills, such as making wise friend choices, managing conflict, self-regulation, and self-advocacy, preparing kids for success now and in the future.

This paperback edition, published on August 6, 2019, is a must-read for parents, educators, and anyone looking to better understand and support middle school-aged children.

9.2Expert Score

Middle School Matters Review: A Must-Read Guide for Parents

In Middle School Matters, Phyllis L. Fagell offers actionable insights for parents to help their kids thrive during grades 6-8 with essential life skills and confidence-building strategies.

PROS

• Practical, actionable advice for parents.
• Focuses on middle school as a critical developmental stage.
• Covers 10 key skills essential for character and confidence building.
• Includes expert insights from psychologists, educators, and real middle schoolers.
• Encourages proactive, low-stakes preparation for future challenges.

CONS

• Content may vary in relevance depending on regional middle school systems.
• Requires consistent parental engagement to apply the strategies effectively.