You have probably talked many times with your child about how to treat others. But have you had a good discussion about why? Middle school students are ready for a higher level of thinking. So it is important that they know the reasons behind the action.

Two-thirds of the school year is gone. Now a big transition looms for many middle schoolers and their parents. High school is six months away. Start preparing your child and yourself.

Research shows your child's ability to understand and relate to what he reads is linked to what he knows before he turns that first page. This is called "prior knowledge". Prior knowledge is important because having some knowledge before reading means your child will not have to try to figure out the text just from the information in front of him. Prior knowledge of a topic may also keep him more engaged in what he's reading.

Your middle schooler is smart, so why does he keep bringing home so-so grades? The issue may be motivation--or, rather, a lack thereof.If that's the case, he's not alone. According to a U.S. Department of Education study, students' lack of motivation is a main cause of low achievement in school.

Of course, students become underachievers for different reasons. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to the problem. There are, however, many strategies you can use.