Middle school can be such an awkward time for a child. It’s the years that their bodies start changing, acne starts growing, and their hormones are out of control! This is also the time when they typically seek interest in children of the opposite sex. As school dances are quickly approaching (if they haven’t already), parents may want to take a minute to give some “cool” advice on how to be the rock star kid at the middle school dance.
Know all the cool dance moves.
Knowing the coolest dance moves (<– must click the link) is crucial to thriving at the dance. When there is a dance-off OR when no one is dancing at all, your child needs to be prepared and ready to pull out the best moves at any given moment. Typically, this works mostly for the guys, especially when a cute girl is in view. A super cool dance move will surely get her attention.
Know the best pick-up lines.
This is the BEST way to start up a conversation with someone of interest. Pick-up lines are cheesy, fun, and a great way to break the ice with a giggle. Some of my top favorites are “They say Disneyland is the happiest place on earth. Well apparently, no one has ever been standing next to you” and “Date me if I’m wrong, but isn’t your name Gertrude?”
Dress in style.
Guys, I believe, look extra dapper in some khakis, a button up, and a bow tie. “Fresh” is the word they want to be described as. Get a good looking haircut and slap on that smile that will charm all the ladies. Girls should be careful to dress age appropriate. Too many times I see middle school girls showing up wearing clothes that I could potentially rock on an evening out on the town. Girls should strive to dress fun and spunky. Maybe a cute colorful dress with some fun tights and flats. Hot pink lipstick will for sure add the spark needed to complete the outfit.
Smile and HAVE FUN.
Don’t show up to a dance and start drama with the girl or boy in your class. Drama does not look cute and no one wants to be around it. Leave the drama at the door and come in knowing that you will have the BEST NIGHT EVER. Dance, smile, laugh, and enjoy the night. You’ll surely attract the one you have your eye on.
Hang with friends.
Don’t make the dance all about getting the girl or guy that you like. Hang out with your friends and be as goofy as possible! The goal is to have fun – not to be serious about winning love. If the girl or guy isn’t interested, not a big deal. Grab your friends and hit the dance floor. Nights with friends are always the best nights and sweetest memories. Don’t waste your night obsessing over someone who isn’t interested.
Don’t “follow the crowd.”
Be your own individual, unique, person that your are and SHINE. If the “in-crowd” looks at you funny because you aren’t what they constitute as “cool,” then you’re doing something right! Make your way around the room and try to make a new friend! If you stay confined to a group, you’ll miss out a great friendship you could potentially form with someone who may be a little different than you. Step outside of your comfort zone.
Keep it PG.
Every parent has their own idea of when it’s appropriate for girls and boys to “date.” What is middle school “dating” anyways? My advice is to talk to your kid and remain open. Are they allowed to dance? Hold hands? Not go anywhere NEAR the opposite sex? If you’re too strict, chances are they will still do what they want but find ways to hide it from you. Decide on what you believe to be appropriate with your spouse and communicate it to your child. It just depends on your kid and your parenting style as to how you want to address this, but communication is KEY.
As a middle school teacher, I see it all. Kids are typically awkward and weird at this age (this too shall pass). Help your child by giving them some tips to get them through these years of transformation into young adulthood. Keep it lighthearted, encourage them to have fun, and to embrace the years full of acne, braces, and super cheesy dance moves!
