Middle school is a time in children's lives when they experience tremendous changes: physically, emotionally, and socially. It is a very vulnerable stage when children are exposed to risky behaviors, intense peer pressure, and a possible academic decline. Parents need to be aware of the issues and challenges that their children face so that they can help to solve problems in a proactive manner. When parents work closely with school personnel, young adolescents are guided more effectively.

The author, who has worked as a middle school counselor, reveals actual problems that a school...