Versed Editors's blog

Summer is already here, and it is a great time for middle schoolers to take a break, recharge, and pursue fun adventures with family and friends. In between fun activities, it is also a great time to explore new areas of interest and also get ahead academically. Academically driven students can use this time to prepare for high school, giving direction to their skills and interests. With the explosion of virtual programs during the pandemic, students have more options than ever before in every subject, interest, or hobby one can possibly think of. At the same time, with pandemic restrictions easing across the country, there are now also more in-person programs that students can choose from. We have compiled a list of opportunities that you can consider for your middle schooler in between healthy doses of fun and relaxation.

 

Pre College Summer Programs 

 

UW Youth and Teen Programs 

Remote and in-person 

Age Group: Grades 4 to 8 

The University of Washington offers courses in diverse disciplines for middle schoolers to partake in over the summer. The options range from electronics to coding to writing to debate to an endless array of other options. The dates of each program vary, but all of them run sometime between late June and August. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis - check the website to see the availability of courses and be quick to apply as all the classes are filling up! 

 

NYFA 2022 Summer Camps

Remote and in person 

Age Group: 10 to 13 years 

This summer, the New York Film Academy offers online and in-person summer programs based in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Italy, and Australia. Programs are available in a range of film courses, such as filmmaking, acting, photography, 3D animation, musical theater, and game design. Most programs start around June, with application deadlines falling on Thursday of the week before the program’s start date. Check the website to learn more about each program. 

 

Camp Launch at William and Mary School of Education 

In person 

Age Group: Grades 7 to 10

The William and Mary School of Education offers gifted middle school (as well as high school) students an academically rich summer camp with courses in STEM, writing, and personal development. The program is specifically geared toward giving students from low-income households a chance to carve out an academically rich and bright future for themselves. The virtual camp this year will be held from July 17 to 30. Get in touch with camplaunch@wm.edu if your child is eligible and interested in the program.

 

Interlochen Arts Camp Programs 

In person 

Age Group: Grades 3 to 12

The Interlochen Arts Camp Programs offer students specialized programs in the arts, such as creative writing, dance, visual art, film and media, and interdisciplinary arts. All programs have rolling applications - check the website to learn more about the individual programs, and be quick to apply!

 

EXPLO Junior Program 

In person 

Age Group: Grades 4 to 7 

EXPLO is a non-profit organization that runs summer programs focused on experiential learning, where middle schoolers work with experts to focus on real-world projects. The programs, broken into one for 4-5 graders and one for 6-7 graders, are set to take place in Wheaton College for the summer, with both daily commuters and fully residential options. The two and three-week programs for this summer are set to run around the end of June and the beginning of July. 

 

Center for Bright Kids GLOW Program 

In person 

Age Group: Grades 5 to 8 

Middle schoolers attend a two-week residential program supporting differentiated foundational knowledge through helping children work with a dynamic group of high-interest peers. This year, the program is set to take place from 12 June to 25 June. Applications are currently open - be quick to visit the website and apply as seats are filling up! 

 

Summer Discovery 

In person 

Age Group: Grades 6 to 12 

Summer Discovery’s Middle School Enrichment Opportunities allow students to build on academic rigor and leadership skills alongside building friendships and a community. The program allows children to explore passions without the pressures of academic grades. Some sample courses include 3D design and printing, creative writing, computer science, dance, mock trial, photography, and more. Currently, the programs are being offered at two locations: University of California, Los Angeles and Georgetown University. Visit the website to learn more about each campus. 

 

Online Courses 

Middle schoolers can consider honing their skills in an academic area of their interest through different online platforms. Here is a list of some disciplines and how they can learn more:

 

Math 

• Prodigy is a free fantasy roleplaying game. In it, students battle in-game characters by answering set questions. The app includes a reporting tool that allows parents/teachers to track a child's progress. Questions can also be customized for more targeted learning. Prodigy is designed for students ages 6-14/grades 1st-8th.
• Thinkwell is a website that produces high quality video seminars on a variety of topics, such as pre-algebra, trigonometry, and calculus. Although the prices can be high, Thinkwell is a great alternative for students that don't respond as well to reading textbooks and need a more visual approach in order to master a new concept.
• Greg Tang Math utilizes graphics and vivid visuals to instill an understanding of mathematical concepts. His site offers a variety of free games, puzzle packs, board games, and other enrichment tools meant to find alternative methods to teaching traditional concepts. 
• Brainscape is a series of digital flashcards that uses confidence-based repetition to focus on problem areas. Decks are easily synced between devices or shared with friends for test prep or study groups. Students can also work collaboratively with their teachers/tutors to create flashcards focused on their particular learning needs. 
• Khan Academy is an indispensable resource as we all know, and it’s completely free. Why not jump ahead and get the hang of algebra, or geometry while the student has time on their hands?

For more information on math enrichment, visit our Definitive Guide to Math Enrichment page.

 

Technology and Coding 

• Code.org is a nonprofit website geared towards teaching school aged children (K-12) how to code online for free. They have courses that teach students how to code for apps, games, and websites using JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
• Codecademy is a free online platform that offers programming classes in Python, Java, JavaScript, Ruby, SQL, C++, HTML, and CSS. It provides interactive lessons for daily practice. Codecademy is notable for teaching real world programming skills through different learning modules called “career paths” such as web development and data science. These paths offer a comprehensive learning experience, where the students are taught how to apply real world programming skills.  
• Skillcrush is a beginner friendly coding resource that delivers emails with bite-sized, 5 minute courses. Purchasing “blueprints” allow students to combine these classes into comprehensive courses. Upon completion of a blueprint, Skillcrush provides a letter of recommendation, a portfolio of code, and an official Certificate of Completion.
• Udemy is an online learning platform that has over 2,000 user-created courses dedicated to coding. There is a fee for most classes but many of the short beginner coding lessons are offered for free. Paid classes typically offer Certificate of Completion. 
• MIT Open Courseware is part of MIT’s goal to make all of their education materials from their courses free, which happens to include several courses on coding. Students can learn Java, C++, and even MATLAB through video lectures and assignments. 

For more information on math enrichment, visit our blog on Best of Online Learning - Coding.

English 

• HemingwayApp is a simple, but effective tool passionate writers can use to highlight their problem areas. This online editor scans uploaded texts for run-on sentences, passive voice, and other common grammatical and structural issues that even a skilled proofreader can miss. The site also allows users to track their reading time, word count, and reading level, which can help meet the requirements of certain assignments.
• Time4Writing is best known for its teacher-led 8-week writing course. Compared to other online intensives, it's relatively cost effective and comes highly recommended. The site also has a Free Writing Resources page that includes study guides on supporting details, run-ons, structural issues, and thesis statements. They also offer help on writing for standardized tests and research resources.
• Writopia is a non-profit creative writing program for kids and teens ages 4–18. Started in New York City, the program has expanded to Washington DC, Chicago, Los Angeles, and is now accessible anywhere via online courses. All classes are taught by published authors and writers, and they provide classes in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and even college essay writing.
• EssayPunch takes a teach-by-doing stance on writing. This free interactive website leads students through all the steps involved in drafting, editing, and proofreading assignments, teaching key concepts along the way. Users are able to track and understand their progress as well as view their future goals at a glance. Students that struggle with writing an informative or persuasive paper may respond to this relatively hands-on method.

For more information on writing resources, consult the Versed Guide to Definitive Writing Help.

Language 

• Duolingo is a cost-friendly language website. They offer free, interactive and bite-sized lessons in 35 different languages. Each lesson is personalized, allows each user to learn at one’s own pace, and the short 5-10 minute lessons allow for incremental breaks. Learners progressively unlock new content as they master topics. Languages range from popular ones like French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese, to even fictional languages such as High Valyrian (although this may not be the most useful).
• HelloTalk is yet another cost effective resource that students can use to learn a language. The free app connects students with native speakers across the world. It has talk, video, and text features, allowing you to learn a language and its culture through natural conversation from people that speak it first-hand. This app is most useful for learners that need help with native pronunciations and conversational fluency or would simply like to learn more about the culture, slang and context of a language.

For more information on language resources, consult our Best of Online Learning: Languages blog.

Art and Music 

• Skillshare is an online learning community with thousands of classes offered daily in design, illustration, photography, film, animation, fine arts, graphic design, and more. Each class has bite-sized video lessons and hands-on projects, and students proceed to share their projects in the class to get feedback and collaborate with other Skillshare students, making this especially useful for arts students. Skillshare is free, although most upgrade to premium ($15/month) to access full content. Annual membership is $99/year ($8.25/month).
• Musika is a music lesson website that connects you to private music teachers within your area that you may pursue in person or online. Musika also offers a risk-free trial lesson, making it a strong option for those that want to test out online lessons. Rates depend on location, but a typical 60 minute online lesson in New York, NY, is $48 - $60.

For more information, consult our Best of Online Learning: Music and Art blog. 

Outschool.com

A more diverse resource, Outschool.com is a great resource for online courses in a variety of subjects, ranging from math to history to science to entrepreneurship to so much more! It is the perfect opportunity for your child to explore a range of subjects outside of traditional school classes. 

 

Read 

The summer provides a perfect opportunity for middle schoolers to hone reading and writing skills. Children should definitely use this time to pick up some new books. Along with the chance to pick up books at the library, technology has given us easy access to ebooks and digital libraries. Harvard Classics, Goodread, Apple Books, and Kindle are some options that middle schoolers can consider using for reading. The good news is that your family can be anywhere in the world and access every book out there. Beyond books, middle schoolers should try reading newspapers, magazines, and academic journals. Reading the news every day is a good habit and the New York Times subscription is a great place to start. Along with articles, the NYT has weekly quizzes and games that test readers’ knowledge on what they have read, which might be an ideal practice to help strengthen your child’s reading skills and general knowledge.

 

Volunteer 

Middle schoolers can use the summer to volunteer and make an impact. The most appealing option would be to find an established organization for your child to join. Popular organizations that are always welcoming of volunteers are the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, and Meals on Wheels, to name a few. However, it is true that many organizations won’t take students under 14 or even 16. If it is an option for your family as a whole to volunteer together, many organizations will allow parents to bring their children to volunteer together. Beyond established organizations, middle schoolers cannot contribute to the community in other ways. Consider making them take up self-driven work that doesn't require them to be part of an organization. For instance, children can help clear trash in local areas such as parks, beaches, or local trails. Alternatively, they can start donation drives by collecting old clothes, toys, books, or even food from the neighborhood and donating it to interested organizations such as shelters and foster homes. You may also find opportunities for your child to contribute to your neighborhood itself. For example, they can offer to mow an elderly neighbor's lawn or help out with other household chores people might need help with. An excellent volunteer option is making your child tutor elementary school children, which can even be done virtually!

 

Creative project

Along with volunteer opportunities, children can also use this time to undertake different creative projects. They can consider starting a business, such as selling baked goods or even artwork (such as bookmarks!). They can create their own poetry collections or photo albums documenting their time over the break. Suppose you have a backyard or any open space with sunlight, then your child can start their own nursery or vegetable patch. For musical ones, if your child can bring a few friends together, start a band!  

 

Healthy does of fun

Summer is about exploring new things, relaxing, and having fun. Try to get your child involved in organized (or not so organized) sport —along with keeping your child active, sports are useful in building community, discipline, and character. Have your child take time to step out of the house to go for hikes or walks, help out with household chores, play board games with the family (scrabble and boggle are a big plus!), and meet friends. Go on family vacations and adventures. Enjoy the outdoors and recharge for the fall.

 

 

Here are some additional insights on the middle school years:

12 Things Middle Schoolers Can Do This Summer

Guide to Gifted and Talented Programs and Are They Worth It?

7 Things Every Middle School Parents Should Know 

Parenting Advice: How to Help Guide Your Child to Find an Interest

2019 Splash Is Back and Filling Up Quickly - Classes at MIT, Yale, Northwestern, Stanford and Other Top Schools for Middle and High Schools Students

 

Subscribe to our Newsletter 

Receive inside track information on college admissions process, high school and middle school planning, general pre-college guidance, and be the first to know about our events and announcements.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Technology is an integral part of our everyday life —we use it for work, entertainment, communication, information, and so much more. The use of technology has only increased with the pandemic, and this trend will not likely reverse. Hence it is essential that students begin practicing healthy technology usage starting at a young age.

Here is a framework for how you can help your child navigate technology usage at any age by separating out three distinct categories of technology use: time online for entertainment and personal use, time online for academic purposes, and time away from the screen, and being intentional about the times spent in those categories. It is essential to understand that the use of technology should be intentional and not a default. One way to make this happen is by ensuring that all three of these categories function separately.

 

1. How to have control over time online for entertainment

These days, many of us turn to our devices for entertainment and communication with friends and family. Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube are familiar tools for most schoolchildren. So, what are some ways to allow children to use technology for entertainment but not go overboard?

i. Schedule time for when children can use technology for entertainment. For example, on weekdays, allow children to play games or watch Netflix for one hour per day, and perhaps a little longer on weekends. Or only allow screen time during the weekend during certain hours.

ii. Similarly, schedule time for social media communication. Perhaps, you can allow children to talk to friends at a specific time every day. Rather than have social media become a ubiquitous presence, have it become a limited social time that children can look forward to.

iii. Put time limits on social media apps. You can do this by going to device settings and enabling limits for select apps. This way, students can use their social media apps when they want, but once they hit the limit, they will no longer be able to use them for the rest of the day. This strategy will also help them prioritize when and when not to be on social media and figure out a schedule to manage their technology use for entertainment.

iv. Try to introduce more academically oriented forms of entertainment and pastimes for your child. For example, get them subscriptions for newspapers and magazines.

 

2. How to effectively use technology for studying and learning

Students use technology for classes, taking notes, studying, and more. Unfortunately, it is easy to get distracted or experience exhaustion from sitting in front of the screen all day. What are some practices to help students avoid distractions and use technology productively for learning?

i. Students should put away all other unnecessary devices and put social media on do not disturb. For example, if they use their laptops to study, all other phones and tablets should be put away. Even on the laptop, they should shut down all unnecessary apps and programs and switch off notifications. To give their full attention to academics, use the settings and controls on their devices to turn off all other apps and programs.

ii. Take breaks while studying. Sitting in front of the screen all day long can be taxing on the eyes and brain. Taking scheduled breaks away from the computer should be encouraged. Make sure that the breaks taken are not to browse through social media or switch from one device to another. The purpose of taking these breaks is to rest the eyes and come back to studying in front of the screen with renewed energy.

iii. Be purposeful while studying with friends. Studying with friends can be helpful but distracting at the same time. Students should not have friends on a video call in the background while studying. If they are virtually studying with friends, allot a set time per week to call/video conference to study and engage in discussions. And, if possible, try to meet in person instead! 

 

3. How to balance time online with time offline

It is vital for children to balance time on devices with time away from the screen. This is crucial to their mental and physical well-being. So, what are some ways that children can incorporate time online with time offline?

i. When possible, try to do as much homework and studying offscreen as possible. For example, try taking handwritten notes over typed ones.

ii. Try to meet friends in person and do things together that do not involve devices. Go outside for walks. Meet in a café. Work on group projects.

iii. Spend time with family. It is easy to spend free time scrolling through different apps and websites. Instead, students should consciously try to spend quality time with family. For example, try supplementing family movie nights with board game nights. Volunteer together as a family. Be active and play sports and go for walks.

iv. Pick up the phone and call someone. We live in an age of texting and social media and often forget that we can communicate with each other via a regular phone call! Doing this will allow one to connect with others while simultaneously providing a break from the screen.

 

Be sure to download The Versed Middle School Guide below for insights into how to help your child get the most out of middle school years.

 

Here are some additional insights on the middle school years:

12 Things Middle Schoolers Can Do This Summer

Guide to Gifted and Talented Programs and Are They Worth It?

7 Things Every Middle School Parents Should Know 

Parenting Advice: How to Help Guide Your Child to Find an Interest

2019 Splash Is Back and Filling Up Quickly - Classes at MIT, Yale, Northwestern, Stanford and Other Top Schools for Middle and High Schools Students

 

Subscribe to our Newsletter 

Receive inside track information on college admissions process, high school and middle school planning, general pre-college guidance, and be the first to know about our events and announcements.

 

 

 

 

 

Don't miss this weekend extravaganza of classes for middle school students at MIT that is almost free ($40 for the entire weekend).

Spark is a one-weekend program designed to give students the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects. MIT students and community members from the student-run Educational Studies Program teach a variety of classes, from urban orienteering to mathematics to Chinese brush painting and everything in between!

Spark 2022 is a virtual for 7th-8th graders on the weekend of March 12-13. 

Register for classes by March 1st at <https://esp.mit.edu/learnspark22>!

 

At Spark, MIT students and community members will offer over 100 classes, on topics as diverse as:

• Indian Cooking
• CRISPR: The Molecular Scissors
• Planning Like a Pro: Learning to Bullet Journal
• Intro to Quantum Physics

STEM Research Guide for High School (and Middle School) Students

This is the Bible of STEM research for High School students. In one comprehensive document, we provide students with detailed guidance on why, when, and how to conduct research. Includes over 1,000 listings of Research, Internship, Pre-College, Summer, School Year, Enrichment, and Volunteer Programs. Designed for High School and Middle School students looking ahead, this guide includes top programs in every category including Biology & Health Science, Computer Science, Engineering & Robotics, Physics & Astronomy, Math and more.

 

Learn More and Purchase this Guide

 

 

Subscribe to our Newsletter 

Receive inside track information on college admissions process, high school and middle school planning, general pre-college guidance, and be the first to know about our events and announcements.

 

 

 

 

 

The biggest event of the year for middle school STEM students is happening this coming week.

 

Society for Science and Broadcom Foundation invite you to see research conducted by the nation’s top middle school scientists!

 

Join the virtual public exhibition of the Broadcom MASTERS 2021 finalists’ original research projects! The Broadcom MASTERS is the nation’s premier STEM competition for middle school students.

 

Click HERE to download the 2021 Finalist Book.

 

Head HERE for the Broadcom MASTERS Science and Engineering Project Showcase.

 

 

 

STEM Research Guide for High School (& Middle School) Students

This is the Bible of STEM research for High School students. In one comprehensive document, we provide students with detailed guidance on why, when, and how to conduct research. Includes over 1,000 listings of Research, Internship, Pre-College, Summer, School Year, Enrichment, and Volunteer Programs. Designed for High School and Middle School students looking ahead, this guide includes top programs in every category including Biology & Health Science, Computer Science, Engineering & Robotics, Physics & Astronomy, Math and more.

 

Learn More and Purchase this Guide

 

Subscribe to our Newsletter 

Interested in learning about more events like this? Receive inside track information on college admissions process, high school and middle school planning, general pre-college guidance, and be the first to know about our events and announcements.

 

 

 

 

 

The school that a child attends has a significant impact on the child’s academic trajectory and achievement, their social and emotional development, as well as the kinds of opportunities and resources available to them. Parents often wonder if enrolling their child in a private school makes a dramatic difference in their children’s education. Is one preferable over the other? Unfortunately, there is no standard response to this question. There are many excellent private schools as well as many weak ones, just as there are many wonderful public schools as terrible ones. Although it is not possible to make sweeping generalizations about private and public schools, we have listed below some of the pros and cons experienced by families at each type of school. 

 

Public School: 

Pros 

1. Free education. Given that the government funds public schools, the tuition for children at these schools is free of charge, making this a deciding factor for most families.  

2. More diversity. Since public schools are more affordable and easily accessible, children from different backgrounds enroll in these schools. This adds more diversity to the schools in terms of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic background. However, the diversity in public schools also depends on the neighborhood they are in, and not all public schools are necessarily diverse. Also, many private schools now make significant efforts to create diversity. 

3. Large selection of classes/clubs/activities. In very large public schools, the sheer size allows the school to offer every kind of classes, athletic teams, clubs, and activities not possible at smaller schools. 

4. Being part of a neighborhood/local community - community is an important component of student life and having classmates all local makes social interactions and group activities easier - many private school parents cite the challenges of getting students together after school and getting students to activities on weekends.

5. Contributes to the community. Enrolling your child in a public school helps strengthen the local community and the welfare of children within these respective communities. This leads to more people advocating for equality as well.

Cons

1. Students don't necessarily receive personalized attention. If children are not enrolled in a gifted program or special education program, some students can get lost and are provided limited hand holding in public schools. 

2. Parent input is limited. At public schools it is difficult for parents to have their requests for changes in the school implemented. 

3. Large class sizes. The type of class instruction is influenced by class sizes. Larger classes mean teachers provide less individualized feedback and can cause children to participate less, especially if they are not comfortable with speaking up in classes. 

 

Private School: 

Pros

1. Specialized and tailored. Often, parents choose to send their children to certain private schools because they have specialized courses and classes in subject areas not offered in public schools. For instance, a child involved in art, may find a private school that focuses on the arts and nurtures this skill. This applies to other subjects such as science and technology. That being said, some very large public schools offer an incredible array of classes and extracurricular activities and in large cities there are magnet schools focusing on niche areas such as the arts.

2. Quality instructors. There is often the belief that the teachers in private schools are more qualified. Teachers here are experts in what they do and teach, with many of them holding PhDs. However, this does not mean that public schools do not have highly qualified instructors. In fact, in well-funded school districts, public schools provide tenure and better salaries, making many prefer to teach here. 

3. Student to teacher ratio. The number of students per teacher is generally lower in private schools, given that the overall student population is usually smaller than in public schools. This allows students to receive more personalized attention.  

4. Alumni network. Private schools tend to have stronger alumni networks, which is advantageous for future internship and career prospects. 

5. Top notch facilities and beautiful campuses. We have seen unbelievable facilities that rival University campuses at some of the top private schools in the country. However, this does not mean all private schools have this. There are plenty of small community and parochial private schools whose facilities are no better than public schools. Also, some public schools in wealthy suburbs and magnet schools in urban areas have incredible facilities. 

6. Better college counselors. Private schools pay a lot of attention to college admissions and usually have teams well educated on how to handhold students through the process.

Cons

1. Cost of Attendance. Private schools require students’ families to pay tuition, not making it an affordable option for many.  

2. Loss of socioeconomic diversity. Given that private schools require student’s families to pay tuition, this is not an option for most families. While some students attend private schools on scholarships, this is still incomparable to the diversity present in public schools. 

3. Small student population. On the one hand, this is a plus for students as it gives them more personalized attention with teachers. On the other hand, small sizes can also be a con for peer interaction, meeting different people, and having extensive clubs and activities. Private school parents often cite the challenges of attending the same school with the same small group of students for K-12 - students that don’t fit in socially with this small group of students may have difficulties.

4. Difficult to socialize. In private schools, there could be less of a community given that students often live in far-flung locations. This makes it difficult for students to get together for study sessions over the weekend and independently create plans and impromptu get togethers. 

 

Conclusion 

Public and private schools have their pluses and minuses, and there is no standard rule that parents should enroll their children in one over the other. It all depends on what the available options are for each family and what academic, extracurricular, and social/emotional needs that a student has. Parents need to consider the pros and cons and see what matters to them. For some, the cost might be a deciding factor. For others, it might be the importance of an alumni network. Additionally, the type of neighborhood you live in and the available schools, both private and public, would also influence this decision. For example, if students live in a well-resourced school district, there is no need for them to enroll in a private school. Sometimes, private schools may not be easily available to students, in which case parents can also consider boarding schools. For some families, none of these options work for them where they live. Fortunately, there are other options including online schools. Learn more about this option at 12 Online High Schools to Consider. Finally, parents should also consider whether one is better than the other from a college admissions standpoint. Read Public vs Private High Schools - Does It Matter for College Admissions?

 

For more insights, read:

Public vs Private High Schools - Does It Matter for College Admissions?

6 Steps to Better Grades

5 Important Skills Middle Schoolers Should Develop Before High School

5 Things Freshmen Can Do To Prepare For College (applies to Sophomores too!)

12 Online High Schools to Consider

 

Subscribe to our Newsletter 

Receive inside track information on college admissions process, high school and middle school planning, general pre-college guidance, and be the first to know about our events and announcements.

 

 

 

Middle school is a time when students’ interests and abilities slowly start to pave the way for what classes they take in high school, what activities they engage in, and ultimately what future studies and career paths lie ahead for them. This is a great time for exploration and discovery, where students can dabble in many different things without any expectation. While grades do become more important at this stage compared to elementary school, they ultimately do not matter too much. College applications will only ask for high school grades, not those from middle school. Hence, while taking on academically challenging courses and making school a priority, middle schoolers should also use this time to discover their interests and try new things. 

 

What are some things they can do in this exploration and discovery phase? 

 

Try many things and start focusing on areas of strength

Middle schoolers should look at taking classes in a diverse range of subjects, and learn to approach these with an open mind.  At this stage, they will begin seeing what classes interest them and which ones don't. Middle school students should begin focusing on the classes that interest them and devote more of their time and energy to these classes. This will allow them to move on to take more advanced classes in this subject both in middle school and high school, paving the way for higher studies. Understanding educational interests at a young age sets the stage for early preparation for your child’s future, allowing you to work backward and strengthen their skills and exposure to the discipline. Ultimately, students will love the subject more when they are good at it, and enjoy it. In the future, they will be happier having invested in their area of strength.

 

Don’t give up on areas of weakness, but don’t harp on it too much either

While focusing on subjects of interest to them, this does not mean that students must neglect their lesser liked subjects as well. Students should look into why a subject might not interest them and try working on this. For example, students often come to dislike classes if they perform poorly on it. Not understanding a subject can hinder an interest in a subject that your child might actually really enjoy! Students should work on trying to improve their understanding in these courses, either through reaching out to teachers, working alongside peers, or trying out tutoring services. Improving their overall understanding and performance in the subject could help them see the discipline in a new light and they may come to enjoy it! Even if they still dislike the subject, this becomes an opportunity for them to understand how to navigate through subjects and experiences that they might dislike, understanding that they will encounter many more such experiences in the future. But that being said, they do not need to pursue the most rigorous path in these areas.

 

If classes are not available at school, pursue them outside of school

Along with exploring the classes offered in school, middle school years provide students with enough time and opportunity to take up classes outside of the classroom. If your student is interested in subjects that are not offered in school, such as Latin, classics, environmental science, and computer science, , they can look into taking online classes. Especially nowadays, there are many easy to access and inexpensive options that are readily available to students. In our Summer 2021 for Academically Motivated Middle Schoolers blog, we have listed a variety of online classes students can consider partaking in over this summer. Many of the points hold true not just for the summer, but during the school year as well. 

 

Take advantage of after school clubs, sports, arts and music

Middle schoolers should approach extracurricular activities in a similar manner, taking up diverse activities including ones they have been exposed to before as well as possibly new ventures. Many middle schools offer a lot of different clubs, athletic teams, and art/music classes  for students to join. They should take full advantage of  these opportunities and try to stick with these activities for at least a semester if not a full year. This will give them the appropriate exposure to understand the activity they are undertaking and figure out whether it is something they would like to stick with into their high school years. Some popular clubs and organizations available to middle school students include school band, dance ensemble, robotics club, or simply sitting at the French language table at lunch. Getting involved in sports is always  a great option as it  helps with understanding competition, teamwork, commitment, and hard work. 

 

Explore activities outside of schools as well

If there are no clubs, organizations, or sports teams for your child to join at school, they should consider getting involved in activities outside of school. There are a plethora of online classes and groups in every field, ranging from art to languages to math to Model UN and so much more. Alternatively, they can begin their own club with friends, or take time to improve their reading habits, or take up a sport outside of school. Check out Summer 2021 for Academically Motivated Middle Schoolers and 12 Things Middle Schoolers Can Do This Summer for ideas. If your child is against trying new things, try enlisting the support of a peer. Having children get involved in activities or classes with friends will make it easier for them to try new things. Get a group of like minded friends together and work toward making it into a regular activity or formal club! That way, children are both working with peers and working on activities they're interested in. 

 

For addition insights on supporting your child during middle school years, read:

5 Important Skills Middle Schoolers Should Develop Before High School

What You Need to know About Academic Tracking in Middle School

Summer 2021 for Academically Motivated Middle Schoolers

10 Habits Of Highly Successful College Applicants

 

Be sure to download The Versed Middle School Guide below for insights into how to help your child get the most out of middle school years.

 

As every child and every school is unique, if you would like to speak to one of our advisors about helping your child with academic and extracurricular planning, summer options, and high school choices, please schedule a free consultation with us.

 

Subscribe to our Newsletter 

Receive inside track information on college admissions process, high school and middle school planning, general pre-college guidance, and be the first to know about our events and announcements.

 

 

As students enter the middle school years, there is an increased emphasis on students' academic performance - how they do now will pave the way for their high school years. It is important that they need to begin cultivating habits and skills to engage with their academics effectively.  Hence, it is paramount that they lay a strong foundation on which to build their academic careers. Middle schoolers should make school a priority and build good academic skills and healthy work habits. Below, we have curated some of the essential skills that are helpful for middle schoolers to cultivate.  

 

1. Create a healthy study environment 

First, it is essential to create an environment that allows middle schoolers to study effectively. When they sit down to study, the atmosphere around the student can significantly influence how they engage with their work. 

• Create a routine: Students should pick a regular time to sit down and do their school work. They should over time determine how much time they need to get the school work done and plan a study block, factoring in adding breaks to their study routine. Parents should monitor this time in the beginning to make sure that they are spending appropriate amounts of time - too much or too little can both be problematic.
• Create a dedicated workspace: students should find a spot to sit and work without any major distractions. It is helpful to have a dedicated workspace with all their needed stationery, books, and other requirements handy. Some other things to consider are whether there is sufficient light for them to study. Are the noise levels manageable? 
• Eradicate distractions: try to steer clear of anything/ anyone that may interfere or come in the way of your studying. A major distraction for most children is gadgets. Students should put away any devices they do not need for their studies. Even on devices they use for their academics, students should disable unnecessary apps or tabs while working and turn off notifications for social media. Additionally, students often believe that turning on some music helps them study. This is not the case - most music distracts from studies.

 

2. Stay organized and fight procrastination

While studying, it is easy for everyone to give in to procrastination and fall behind on their work. From a young age, students should learn to develop organizational skills that help with time management and staying on top of all academic work. This also reduces stress and allows students to engage with their material in a more constructive manner. Some tricks that help includes:

• Have a weekly/monthly planner with every hour accounted for with activities, homework, and study time, as well as downtime scheduled in. Students can even print and put this up in their rooms or somewhere easily visible. 
• Create a prioritized To-Do List. Students can use either paper and notepads or even electronic versions to make a list of the work they have. Usually, it helps to create a list with the biggest and most challenging tasks coming first followed by tasks the student might find easier. Another way of prioritizing, of course, is by deadline. 
• Commit to doing one task at a time in small increments to stay focused and avoid distractions. Students should tackle one thing on their list at a time. Once they have ticked off a task from their list, they can move on to the next. 
• Read How to Help Your Teens Manage Their Time for additional tips and tools.

 

3. Develop a strong study habit

Many students do not have any plans for studying and start by just reading textbooks or notes and sometimes attempting to memorize these contents directly for their exams. And in class, they often have the habit of simply copying down notes word for word based on what the teacher is saying. Passive studying will not help students learn or retain the information well, and active learning is critical. Here are some ways to implement this:

• Pay attention during class. Instead of merely copying down notes, students should listen to what is being taught and discussed actively. They should also make attempts to participate and speak up in class discussions. 
• Take class notes. Along with participating in class, students should take down some notes. However, they should make sure not to copy down what the teacher is saying monotonously and instead take notes in their own words.
• Study efficiently at home. Effective ways of studying at home involve not merely reading the textbook. Students should gather all their materials - class handouts, notes, homework assignments, previous quizzes and tests, and books. Identify what is most important and create a study guide that includes important topics, terms, and concepts. Turn this list into a set of questions that will force them to remember each item. Read more about study strategies at 6 Steps to Better Grades. 

 

4. Communication and Self advocacy

As middle schoolers enter this stage of their education, they must learn to establish self-advocacy, become more independent with their academic work and interactions, and learn to communicate this new independence. This sets the stage for their interpersonal skills and confidence in the long run. So what can they do? 

• Make decisions on their own. At this stage, students need to start making their own decisions. While still essential for them to communicate and discuss this with the adults around them, they should begin having a say in the type of classes, activities, or clubs they would like to be involved in. 
• Communication. Children need to begin approaching teachers, counselors, and other school staff members on their own. For example, if they have difficulties in a particular subject, they should learn to approach and communicate this with a teacher. Even if they do not have problems in class, it is good to communicate and form a relationship with a teacher on their own. The same goes for other school staff, such as coaches, administrators, or counselors. Students should extend this independence in communication with friends outside of the school setting as well. For example, they should start making plans with friends on their own (of course checking with you to make sure that it is OK).  
• Resolve conflict independently. Allow children to solve conflicts on their own and without intervention as much as possible. For instance, if they have a rift with a peer, allow them to talk to the peer on their own or discuss the issue with teachers or relevant adults before jumping in to help them out. They might be able to find a solution on their own. You can always troubleshoot the problems at home with your child and discuss ways to overcome the conflict at hand, and then allow them to tackle the issue independently. 

 

5. Learn to take risks 

As middle schoolers, children should learn to take risks and explore new possibilities. They need to know how to speak up, combat their fears, and understand that it is OK to encounter failures as well. What are some things they should do? 

• Take classes they may not be good at. This is an opportunity for students to try a subject they may have previously performed poorly on. This will allow them to tackle challenges, accept failure if they encounter it, and build resilience in approaching a subject. 
• Join new clubs. Along with taking up different classes, students should get involved in new activities - school clubs, volunteer work, community sports, etc. If they dislike the activity, they can always quit later. However, this is the time to try out new ventures - there is little consequence at the middle school stage for trying out things the student may develop a distaste for or end up not pursuing. 
• Speak up. Students should learn to participate and ask questions during class—remember, no question is a dumb question, so there is no need to be embarrassed! To help them combat shyness, students can even take up public speaking and join debate clubs. These clubs will help make children speak up with a sense of confidence, clarity, and poise. 
• Make new connections. Taking these risks to do things out of their comfort zone also provides students an opportunity to connect with peers and meet new people. Once again, without letting inhibition take over, students should make the best of their new connections and expand their network, building on the interpersonal skills previously mentioned in the blog. 

For additional insights on middle school years, read:

 

7 Things Every Middle School Parents Should Know

What You Need to know About Academic Tracking in Middle School

Summer 2021 for Academically Motivated Middle Schoolers

Guide to Gifted and Talented Programs and Are They Worth It?

 

Subscribe to our Newsletter 

Receive inside track information on college admissions process, high school and middle school planning, general pre-college guidance, and be the first to know about our events and announcements.

 

 

 

 

“Tracking" is a process in middle school wherein students are set on trajectories based on their grades and perceived abilities. Traditionally, students are broken into two or three different tracks. The tracking system is meant to provide students with a curriculum that matches their needs as a student. 

However, it can also cause a student to be slowed down due to a misconception in middle school. For example, a student may perform poorly in a math examination because they're used to the slower pace of learning in elementary school, not because they fundamentally struggle or don't understand the material. Regardless, their poor grade may set them on a path that steers them away from the more challenging math courses simply because of an assumption made about that initial performance.

Since there are only so many assessments in a school year and a large number of kids, it's easy to understand how these assumptions can be made. However, tracking causes students with long-term goals, such as AP courses and standardized tests in mind to suffer. Parents and students alike must be proactive about placement and advocating for the curriculum your students need to succeed.

There are some things that you can do to help your middle schooler be placed on the right track. Middle schoolers should make school a priority at this point as the practices they establish here will affect what kind of student they become in high school and later in college. It is paramount that parents help students lay a strong foundation on which to build their academic careers.

 

What can you encourage in your child to make sure  they are placed on the right “track”? 

 

Regular Attendance

The first and most important way to be on top of grades in middle school is regular attendance. Missing classes will cause your student to fall behind on work, miss out on crucial concepts and discussions in class, and not be able to effectively engage with the academic material. Regular attendance, while causing them to stay in touch with the material and class, is also crucial in reminding your child the importance of education and how they need to make it their priority.

Additionally, attendance should not be perceived as merely being present in the class, but making active efforts to pay attention and participate in the classes. Too many students zone out in class, and spend unnecessary time learning the materials on their own to do homework or to study for exams. What can students do to pay attention in class?

• Sit in the front of the class (if this is an option). If class is taking place virtually, make sure that their camera remains on.
• Come to class prepared - do any pre-assigned reading.
• Take notes.
• Speak up and participate - for those that have difficulty with this, make it a goal to speak up at least once a class, and doing it early in the class before other answers/questions have been given is less stressful.

 

Building Rapport with Teachers

Cultivating a healthy relationship with their teachers is a great way for students to ensure that they are effectively engaging with their material, receive constructive feedback, and know where they stand academically. Additionally, this may help your school see your actual skills and potential, and that you may not have been put on the right “track,” to facilitate your move to one that is more challenging. How do you establish a good rapport with your teacher?

• Establish communication early - you do not want the first communication with your teacher to be about grades. Participate in class and show your interest in the subject.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions about things you don’t know - If you don’t understand something, chances are, other students are in the same boat. 
• Take advantage of office hours - this is free tutoring.
• Address poor grades early on, do not wait until half of the semester is over - If you are doing poorly in assignments and tests, meet with the teacher to understand how you can do better next time. 

Read more about how to help students succeed academically in 6 Steps to Better Grades.

 

Tutoring

If you feel your child is finding it difficult to grapple with certain concepts but is keen on pushing themselves to get into a higher track, you can consider outside tutoring services to help them hone their academic skills. Learn more about tutoring options for your child at our Versed Guide to Tutoring Services. Also read Free and Inexpensive Tutoring to look at some great free and low-cost options that every student can take advantage of. Keep in mind that for some students, it may be worth it to retain a more expensive tutor with expertise in very high-level subject matters or with experience working with students with learning differences or test anxiety. 

 

Summer School & Other Options

If you feel that your child is not at the “right” level and want to have them skip ahead in a subject, for example moving from pre-algebra to algebra , students can also consider summer school. Some school districts and private schools give students the option to skip a grade ahead, especially in math, through summer school.  This gives students an opportunity to move up a level if you feel that your student is on the wrong track or get a head start on more advanced classes at an earlier age if you feel that your student is not adequately challenged. Get in touch with your child’s school and explore the possibility of their doing summer school. In case your child’s school does not offer this option of summer school, look at other ways that they might be able to skip ahead. Ask the school whether your child would be able to skip ahead by taking an exam. In this scenario, your child will have to prepare on their own outside of school. Get the syllabus for the subject ahead of time along with the appropriate textbooks and materials they will need in order to prepare for the class and study for the exam. You can enlist a tutor to help with their studies or even your student’s current teachers for help in any capacity!

If getting ahead during middle school is not an option, consider studying ahead outside of school, as there will certainly be opportunities to test into higher level courses in High School. This is often done in subjects such as foreign language, math, and science. 

 

Be sure to download The Versed Middle School Guide below for insights into how to help your child get the most out of middle school years.

 

As every child and every school is unique, if you would like to speak to one of our advisors about helping your child with academic and extracurricular planning, summer options, and high school choices, please schedule a free consultation with us.

 

For additional insights, check out our blog posts:

 

Guide to Gifted and Talented Programs and Are They Worth It?

7 Things Every Middle School Parents Should Know 

Parenting Advice: How to Help Guide Your Child to Find an Interest

 

Subscribe to our Newsletter 

Receive inside track information on college admissions process, high school and middle school planning, general pre-college guidance, and be the first to know about our events and announcements.

 

 

 

 

 

By: Jahnavi Pradeep

Summer is a time for children to continue learning and growing beyond just the classroom. Academically driven middle schoolers can use this time to gain essential study skills, explore interests, gain independence, and build on their strengths to establish a strong foundation for high school. This past year, too many children were stuck in front of their screens for most of their academic activities, and we know how taxing that can be. Here, we offer you a curated list of virtual and in-person activities that your middle school student can partake in to make the best of their summer.  

 

ONLINE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

The silver lining of the COVID 19 pandemic has been the discovery of an incredible array of enrichment courses that can be taken online in the most convenient and accessible form. Middle school students are at an age and stage of development where they have the independence and the attention span to really benefit from the online format. Taking an online course helps your academically driven middle schooler explore subjects and interests beyond what is offered at school and at levels that are appropriate for each student. Additionally, these classes can be cost effective. Here is a list of different subjects they can engage in over the summer, along with links to more in-depth resources for online classes they can take in these disciplines.

Math 

Whether your middle schooler is bored and needs a greater challenge, or is struggling with math, summer is a great time to catch up or get ahead. Academically driven students will have no shortage of subjects to explore and advance their knowledge. Here are a couple resources for them to try.

Prodigy is a free fantasy roleplaying game. In it, students battle in-game characters by answering set questions. The app includes a reporting tool that allows parents/teachers to track a child's progress. Questions can also be customized for more targeted learning. Prodigy is designed for students ages 6-14/grades 1st-8th. 

Thinkwell is a website that produces high quality video seminars on a variety of topics, such as pre-algebra, trigonometry, and calculus. Although the prices can be high, Thinkwell is a great alternative for students that don't respond as well to reading textbooks and need a more visual approach in order to master a new concept. 

Khan Academy is an indispensable resource as we all know, and it’s completely free. Why not jump ahead and get the hang of algebra, or geometry while the student has time on their hands?

For more information on math enrichment, visit our Definitive Guide to Math Enrichment page.

Writing

Writing is an important skill for students to cultivate at any age, but it is critical for middle schoolers to gain competence in this area prior to starting high school. Consider making them maintain a daily journal over the summer to help keep them actively engaged in the practice of writing. They can write on anything that interests them, ranging from poetry to daily observations to book or film reviews to anything else that might inspire them to write! For formal organized programs and tools to help with writing, consider the following resources.

HemingwayApp is a simple, but effective tool passionate writers can use to highlight their problem areas. This online editor scans uploaded texts for run-on sentences, passive voice, and other common grammatical and structural issues that even a skilled proofreader can miss. The site also allows users to track their reading time, word count, and reading level, which can help meet the requirements of certain assignments.

Time4Writing is best known for its teacher-led 8-week writing course. Compared to other online intensives, it's relatively cost effective and comes highly recommended. The site also has a Free Writing Resources page that includes study guides on supporting details, run-ons, structural issues, and thesis statements. They also offer help on writing for standardized tests and research resources.

Writopia is a non-profit creative writing program for kids and teens ages 4–18. Started in New York City, the program has expanded to Washington DC, Chicago, Los Angeles, and is now accessible anywhere via online courses. All classes are taught by published authors and writers, and they provide classes in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and even college essay writing.

For more information on writing resources, consult the Versed Guide to Definitive Writing Help.

Technology and Coding

With technology becoming indispensable in every field, middle school is a good time to get exposure to coding or technology in general. Beyond coding, students can take courses to learn more about graphic design, creating websites, producing video content, and more.

Code.org is a nonprofit website geared towards teaching school aged children (K-12) how to code online for free. They have courses that teach students how to code for apps, games, and websites using JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.

Codecademy is a free online platform that offers programming classes in Python, Java, JavaScript, Ruby, SQL, C++, HTML, and CSS. It provides interactive lessons for daily practice. Codecademy is notable for teaching real world programming skills through different learning modules called “career paths” such as web development and data science. These paths offer a comprehensive learning experience, where the students are taught how to apply real world programming skills.  

Our blog on Best of Online Learning - Coding will guide you to the right resources for finding the best online programs for your child.

Language 

Summer is a great time for students to take up a language (or more than one!). In the virtual format, your middle schooler can easily access language classes from anywhere, while on vacation and traveling with family.

Duolingo is a cost-friendly language website. They offer free, interactive and bite sized lessons in 35 different languages. Each lesson is personalized, allows each user to learn at one’s own pace, and the short 5-10 minute lessons allow for incremental breaks. Learners progressively unlock new content as they master topics. Languages range from popular ones like French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese, to even fictional languages such as High Valyrian (although this may not be the most useful).

HelloTalk is yet another cost effective resource that students can use to learn a language. The free app connects students with native speakers across the world. It has talk, video, and text features, allowing you to learn a language and its culture through natural conversation from people that speak it first-hand. This app is most useful for learners that need help with native pronunciations and conversational fluency or would simply like to learn more about the culture, slang and context of a language.

Explore further at our Best of Online Learning: Languages blog.

Public Speaking

Public speaking is a useful skill for everyone, and middle school is a great time to explore. The many virtual programs available makes it that much more palatable for tweens who refuse to engage in public speaking in front of their friends!  The MUN Institute offers programs in public speaking online and is a great way to learn about current events. Capitol Debate is a second well regarded program. If not these, look up what local debate programs are taking place near where you live!

Outschool.com

Outschool.com is a great resource for online courses in a variety of subjects, ranging from math to history to science to entrepreneurship to so much more! It is the perfect opportunity for your child to explore a range of subjects outside of traditional school classes. 

Art and Music 

Students can take up online art and music classes via skype or other online platforms. Here are a couple online resources to consider.

Skillshare is an online learning community with thousands of classes offered daily in design, illustration, photography, film, animation, fine arts, graphic design, and more. Each class has bite-sized video lessons and hands-on projects, and students proceed to share their projects in the class to get feedback and collaborate with other Skillshare students, making this especially useful for arts students. Skillshare is free, although most upgrade to premium ($15/month) to access full content. Annual membership is $99/year ($8.25/month).

Musika is a music lesson website that connects you to private music teachers within your area that you may pursue in person or online. A complete list of instruments taught is here. Musika also offers a risk-free trial lesson, making it a strong option for those that want to test out online lessons. Rates depend on location, but a typical 60 minute online lesson in New York, NY, is $48 - $60.

Refer to Best of Online Learning: Music and Art to see a range of options available at every price point.

 

PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAMS

 

Apart from the easy access online classes students can take in a host of different subjects, middle schoolers can also choose to partake in specific pre-college summer programs taking place virtually this summer. Provided by what are considered some of the most prestigious academic institutions, they ensure a credible and enriching experience for your child. For summer 2021, many of these programs are running virtually, with lower tuition rates. We have provided a rundown of some of the best programs and camps that your middle schooler should consider this summer. Please pay close attention to application deadlines to ensure that your child can adequately prepare their material and get into these programs!

Stanford National Forensic Institute Summer Debate Programs

https://snfi.stanford.edu/camp_sessions/by_grade/7-8 

Age Group: Grades 7 and 8

The SNFI Middle School programs (2021, remote) are 1-3 week long programs that prepare middle schoolers for academically rigorous courses in high school and for competitive speech and debate events. The dates of the programs vary based on the course chosen, but all courses will take place sometime between late June and early August.  The deadline for these programs is typically around May 25, with applicants before May 1 being guaranteed a spot in the program.

UW Summer Youth Programs 

https://www.summer-camp.uw.edu/summer-courses/?g=3#courseList

Age Group: Grades 6 to 8

The University of Washington offers a broad set of courses in diverse disciplines for youth to partake in and keep learning over the summer. From debate to engineering to architecture to law to writing to coding, the list of possible programs is limitless. The dates of each program are different, but all of them run sometime between late June and August. Check the website to see the availability of courses and be quick in applying as they are all filling up!

Camp Launch at William and Mary School of Education

https://education.wm.edu/centers/cfge/precollegiate/camp_launch/index.php

Age Group: Grades 7 to 10 

The William and Mary School of Education offers gifted middle school (and high school) students an academically rich summer camp with courses in STEM, writing, and personal development. The program is specifically geared toward giving students from low-income households a chance to carve out an academically rich and bright future for themselves. The virtual camp this year will be held from July 19 to 30. Get in touch with camplaunch@wm.edu if your child is eligible and interested in the program.

Middle School Summer Challenge at Washington University in St. Louis

https://precollege.wustl.edu/middle-school-summer-challenge

Age Group: Grades 5 to 8

Washington University at St.Louis offers summer courses for middle schoolers, strengthening their critical thinking in a host of disciplines ranging from the humanities to public speaking to STEM subjects. The program dates are divided by grade level and will run from June to July, all taking place remotely this year. Ensure that your middle schooler meets the eligibility requirement for this program in terms of grades and other tests, and watch out for the deadline!

Summer Engineering Workshops at Purdue University

https://www.purdue.edu/mep/Pre-College%20Programs/6th,%207th,%208th%20Grade%20Summer%20Engineering%20Workshops.html

Age Group: Grades 6 to 8

The Summer Engineering Workshops at Purdue University invite middle school students to learn about college-level engagement and career exploration in the field of engineering. The program will also help children develop math skills, the ability to network with peers, and guidance on strategies for academic success. The program will run from June 18 to 25, and the deadline for application is May 21.

While we have listed a few of the most popular courses and programs here, you can explore and find more virtual summer programs for your child on our 2021 List of Summer pre-College Programs blog. However, please note that the programs listed on this link are for both high school and middle school. Ensure that if a program on this page looks inviting, you have checked that your middle schooler is eligible! 

 

IN-PERSON PROGRAMS

 

The online classes and pre-college summer programs listed above provide your child with opportunities in a range of different disciplines that are happening virtually and that they can take from the comforts of their home. However, with things opening up this summer, there are programs that are offering in-person programs, though in limited capacity. We have listed a few of these opportunities for the summer of 2021.

Interlochen Arts Camp (IN-PERSON)

https://camp.interlochen.org/summer-arts-programs

Age Group: Grades 3 to 12

The Interlochen Arts camp offers students specialized programs ranging from creative writing to dance to music to theatre to the visual arts to film and media to interdisciplinary arts. Check the website for details on these different programs and their individual application processes.

NYFA Kids Summer Camp

https://www.nyfa.edu/summer-camps/locations/online 

Age Group: 10 to 13 years

The New York Film Academy will be hosting in-person and online summer programs for middle schoolers in filmmaking, acting, photography, 3d animation, musical theatre, and game design. Your child will have the option to choose one of these subject areas to specialize in. Camps can run between 1-4 weeks based on your choice. While the summer program for kids (middle schoolers) is offered virtually, you can check whether your child qualifies for NYFA's in-person programs at New York, Los Angeles, and South Beach.

EXPLO

https://www.explo.org/summer-programs/kids/

Age Group: Grades 4 to 12

EXPLO is a not-for-profit organization that runs summer programs focusing on highly engaging experiential learning. In this immersive two-week in-person summer program, EXPLO students will collaborate with experts on real world projects and challenges, with first hand insight into what a career in different fields may look like.

Summer Discovery 

https://www.summerdiscovery.com/

Age Group: Grades 6 to 12

Summer Discovery offers 2 – 6 week pre-college enrichment programs for middle and high school students in the US and England. Students live in a university residence hall while taking courses in STEM, Social Sciences, Law & Government, Business, and more taught by university professors. The programs provide access to over 300 courses and students have access to world-class academics, high-school internships, enrichment courses, community service, cultural immersion, sports, and residential life.

Additionally, in case you are interested in looking at more in-person summer programs for your child, visit our 2021 IN-PERSON Summer Programs on College Campuses for Middle and High School Students blog. We have curated a list of some of the available in-person summer programs for middle school and high school students to engage in this summer.

 

 

READING

 

The summer provides a perfect opportunity for middle schoolers to hone their reading and writing abilities. Along with running along to the library to pick up a good book to read, children can now turn to digital libraries for quick and easy access to a myriad of books to read. Harvard Classics, Goodread, Apple Books, and Kindle have a variety of ebook options for your child to choose from. Along with reading books, middle schoolers can also use this time to cultivate habits of reading newspapers, magazines, and academic journals. Consider getting them a NYT subscription!

 

VOLUNTEER WORK AND CREATIVE PROJECTS

 

With social distancing rules slowly relaxing this summer, there should be more opportunities for your child to take up some type of volunteer work. What are some volunteer opportunities that your driven middle schooler can take up at this young age?

The most appealing option would be to find an organization for your child to join. Popular organizations that are always welcoming of volunteers are the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, and Meals on Wheels, to name a few. However, finding organizations for your child to join at this age can also be challenging. But, this does not mean that your child cannot contribute to the community in other ways. Consider making them take up self-driven work that doesn't require them to be part of an organization. For instance, children can help clear trash in local areas such as parks, beaches, or local trails. Alternatively, they can start donation drives by collecting old clothes, toys, books, or even food from the neighborhood and donating it to interested organizations such as shelters and foster homes. You may also find opportunities for your child to contribute to your neighborhood itself. For example, they can offer to mow the neighbor's lawn or help out with other household chores people might need help with. Children can also start their own COVID19 awareness campaigns around the importance of masks, hygiene, and vaccines. An excellent volunteer option is making your child tutor elementary school children, which can even be done virtually!

Along with volunteer opportunities, children can also use this time to undertake different creative projects. They can consider starting a business, such as selling baked goods or even artwork (such as bookmarks!). They can create their own poetry collections or photo albums documenting their time over the break. Suppose you have a backyard or any open space with sunlight, then your child can start their own nursery or vegetable patch. A great opportunity if your child can meet up with other friends is starting their own band!  

 

CULTIVATING HEALTHY HABITS

 

Being academically successful comes with managing healthy skills with regards to deadlines, taking on increasing workloads, managing stress, and having a good time learning! While taking on rigorous online courses, summer programs, and other work, middle schoolers should also learn to balance that with healthy habits and time for family and themselves. Try to get your child involved in organized sport if possible—along with keeping your child active, sports are useful in building community, discipline, and developing character. Additionally, consider making your child take time to step out of the house to go for hikes or walks, help out with household chores, play board games with the family (scrabble and boggle are a big plus!), and meet friends in a socially distanced manner.

 

Be sure to download The Versed Middle School Guide below for insights into how to help your child get the most out of middle school years.

 

As every child and every school is unique, if you would like to speak to one of our advisors about helping your child with academic and extracurricular planning, summer options, and high school choices, please schedule a free consultation with us.

 

For additional insights, check out our blog posts:

 

Guide to Gifted and Talented Programs and Are They Worth It?

7 Things Every Middle School Parents Should Know 

Parenting Advice: How to Help Guide Your Child to Find an Interest

 

Subscribe to our Newsletter 

Receive inside track information on college admissions process, high school and middle school planning, general pre-college guidance, and be the first to know about our events and announcements.

 

 

About Jahnavi:

Jahnavi Pradeep is currently a rising junior at Mount Holyoke College, pursuing an English major and a Film Studies minor. Having navigated the ups and downs of K-12 education herself, she is committed to Versed's mission of making all students' academic journeys a success! Jahnavi is excited about helping students and their families find the right resources and information to make the best of their K-12 years. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Following up on our blogs about improving academic performance, we have teamed up with Mindprint Learning to go into the science of learning to help parents understand that there isn’t one learning trait shared by all students. This blog post by Mindprint will go through 10 different traits that drive learning.  Be sure to join us for our live webinar in January where Nancy Weinstein, the founder of Mindprint, will share how parents can identify where student’s strengths and weaknesses lie, and use that information to improve learning and help students succeed academically. 

 

10 Learning Traits that Drive Academic Outcomes

 

The following is a brief summary of the learning traits that drive most academic learning. Everyone has their own unique combination of these traits, just as we all have our own unique fingerprint. It’s what makes each of us special but can also make learning confusing or challenging at times.

The 10 skills are organized in four key domains. Click on the links for more in-depth information on each skill.

 

Complex Reasoning

Complex reasoning is the ability to analyze information and solve complicated problems. When students use reasoning skills, they are thinking through ideas in a logical way to arrive at a conclusion. This is often referred to as “higher order thinking.” Don’t be surprised if you have a student who is strong in one area of reasoning but not in another. Most students show a significant difference in these skills and that inconsistency can be the biggest source of confusion and frustration for teachers, parents, and students alike.

Verbal reasoning is the ability to understand language-based information. Biggest impact: all subjects when reading, writing or speaking. Greatest predictor of overall academic achievement. Learn more about verbal reasoning.

Abstract reasoning is the ability to understand non-language-based information, including numbers, shapes and patterns. Biggest impact: math and science, particularly in higher grades. Learn more about abstract reasoning.

Spatial perception is the ability to visualize how objects relate in space. Biggest impact: specific areas of math and science, especially geometry and physics; hands-on activities; fine and performing arts. Learn more about spatial skills.

 

Executive Functions

Executive functions are the traits that involve thinking in an organized and efficient way. Abilities such as purposeful goal-directed activity, paying attention, evaluating, decision-making, planning, organizing, implementing, and following through. Not surprisingly, executive functions are getting a lot more priority in school.

Attention is the ability to sustain focus, even for tasks that you might not find interesting. Biggest impact: All subjects, particularly those a student finds least interesting and longer assignments. Learn more about attention.

Working memory is the ability to mentally juggle multiple bits of information in short-term memory. Biggest impact: Multi-step problem solving in math and science, reading fluency, and following directions. Learn more about working memory.

Flexible thinking is openness to taking feedback and adapting to solve novel problems. Biggest impact: Math and science in middle and high school and behavior. Learn more about flexible thinking.

 

Memory

Memory is the mind’s storage and retrieval system. How a student takes in and organizes information in memory has a big impact on how easily that student is able to recall information under specific circumstances. It is common for students have one memory skill that is significantly stronger than another. Once you understand which is stronger, you can use that skill to make learning more efficient.

Verbal memory is the ability to remember and recall language-based information. Biggest impact: All subjects, particularly in earlier grades when foundational skills are most important. Learn more about verbal memory.

Visual memory refers to how efficiently you remember and recall objects, pictures, patterns, formulas and other visual information. Biggest impact: Math facts, math and science more generally, and visual arts. Learn more about visual memory.

 

Speed/Efficiency

How fast students work has a bigger impact on test performance and student confidence than many adults like. Students who work at a slower pace might find that they sometimes cannot get all their work done in the allotted time. These students might not be able to finish tests or they might take a long time to complete homework and feel like they can’t do the work when they really just need more time. In contrast, students who work efficiently are able to complete thoughtful work within the expected time. They can use any extra time to check their work, take on more challenges, or relax before the next task.

Visual motor speed is how efficiently your eyes and hands work together. Biggest impact: Handwriting, keyboarding, note taking, and hands-on activities. Learn more about visual motor speed.

Processing speed is how efficiently you process and respond to new information. Processing has several sub-categories, including auditory, verbal, and visual. There are also quick thinking processing tasks and slower processing tasks. Biggest impact: Class participation, standardized tests, reading efficiency and homework efficiency. Learn more about processing speed.

 

Bringing it Together

The most successful learning happens when teachers, parents and students understand the complex intersection of these skills. They know when they can excel with a bit of nurturing and when to provide more supports. Use the summary in your student’s Mindprint to understand these intersections and provide the just right level of supports.

 

About Mindprint Learning 

Mindprint is the worldwide leader in formative cognitive assessment that enables educators to effectively differentiate academic instruction and social-emotional learning. Mindprint's one hour screener identifies the root cause of learning struggles, elevates students' strengths and guides teachers and parents to use individualized instructional strategies based on each student's unique needs. 

Learn more at: https://mindprintlearning.com/

 

Read the following blogs to learn more about supporting your students academically:

6 Steps to Better Grades

How to Guarantee Academic Success

How to Prep for the SAT/ACT

How to Help Your Teens Manage Their Time

 

Subscribe to our Newsletter 

Receive inside track information on college admissions process, high school and middle school planning, general pre-college guidance, and be the first to know about our events and announcements.