Do you remember middle school?
Most people hear "middle school" and start to cringe and usually have at least one story to tell. Usually their story does not have a happy ending....
Even though my middle school years were not so bad and I don't necessarily cringe when I hear those words, finding out my main caseload was to be middle schoolers had my mind racing! Middle schoolers? What will I do with middle school students? I am used to storybooks, singing, painting, kid games....
What I have learned is that I really do enjoy working with my middle school students! They are old enough to start cracking jokes with, to start talking about 'real world' information with, and to question you on answers you give! Some people may not like when a student gives their opinion or questions an action of an adult - but I, if it is asked in a respectful manner, encourage it! It makes me a better speech therapist and it makes me really think about the information I am trying to teach them! Now, there are definately moments when the hormones are raging - emotional girls, 'too tough for school' boys, and a little too much girlfriend/boyfriend-of-the-week talk. However, when asked to get back on topic, most of the time they comply. They are willing to do the work because they are starting to understand why it is important.
So for all you 'elementary only' SLPs - Middle School ain't so bad! :)
(Though I would still take the opportunity to get back to singing and storybooks!)
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