If your tween is looking forward to middle school you should be doing a little preplanning right now. Middle school can be a time of great change and exploration for your child, and you can help your tween adjust and make the most of these changes. If your tween will be heading off to middle school, here's what you need to do right now.

Before Middle School You Should:

Take a School Tour: A school tour is the best way for your child to learn about his new school, feel comfortable with his new surroundings, and calm his concerns or fears about the whole experience.

Make contact with your tween's future middle school half-way through his last year of elementary school to see if they will offer group tours or an open house. You may still wish to schedule a second visit so that your child has another opportunity to learn about his school.

Talk About Extra Curriculars: Your child's middle school will likely offer extracurricular activities that he didn't have in elementary school. Middle schools may offer sport teams, a school band, orchestra, theatre, and any number of academic and interest clubs. Give your child time to think about the options, and encourage your child to try something new, or to join more than one organization.

Discuss Your Expectations: Your tween needs to know what is expected of him during the middle school years, and it's up to you to clearly define your expectations for him. Let your child know that you expect his studies to be a priority. Also, be clear that you want him to enjoy himself and to find a group of friends and peers that support him and that have similar interests.

Be sure your child also knows that you will be there should he encounter any challenges or problems, such as bullying, academic problems, or even loneliness. 

You may also have to initiate a conversation with your tween about clothing and makeup, and what is and is not allowed. Tween girls may be tempted to dress provocatively and they are known for wanting to experiment with make up, so be sure your daughter knows how you expect her to dress for school, or school functions. 

Talk About Safety: Your older child may have some new found independence, and with that independence comes responsibility. Discuss safety issues you may have with your tween, such as what to do if he comes home to an empty house, what to do if he is offered drugs, or how to handle other social pressures. You should also discuss any curfews or house rules that your tween should know. Can he have friends over when you're not at home? Does he have to call you if he's going to be late getting home? Give him the information he needs to establish good habits, so that when he enters high school, he'll know your expectations. 

Talk About Dating: Your child is growing and maturing and you might be surprised to find out one day that your tween has a girlfriend or a boyfriend. Be sure your tween understands where you stand on dating issues, and what your family values are in regards to what is and is not appropriate. Establish clear rules, and encourage your tween to develop interests that encourage your child to make friendships and grow a supportive circle of friends.