How hard are middle schoolers on each other anyway?

[Anonymous]

I have a relatively immature boy who is starting middle school in three weeks. On a scale of 1 to 10, I would put his maturity at a 3 if 10 was the most mature. He was also the victim of some teasing and bullying in elementary school. So, I am thinking (maybe over-thinking) about how to help him avoid being picked on in middle school. As I was doing laundry tonight and folding his Scooby Doo underwear, I began to wonder whether I should throw them away or make sure he doesn't wear them on gym days. At that point, I realized that I am really feeling at a loss as to whether there really is anything I can truly do to help him be successful socially and avoid being a victim. Anyone have any advice?

[Anonymous]

I don't have great advice for you because my kids are younger, but if it makes you feel any better, lots of kids who were picked on later go on to become hugely successful--having a bad middle school school experience can be overcome later (not saying he will have a bad experience, but as a worst-case scenario). If he has one or two good friends, that is enough. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

I am not a name-brand type of person, but I completely favor helping your child fit in and avoid unnecessary bullying.

I think it's great to think a little bit about the outer aspects of things and get him some things to help fit in socially. I would get rid of Scooby Doo underwear (my son tells me boxers are it right now, but I'm not sure). Make sure he doesn't have "kid-like" t-shirts and a couple of cool pairs of jeans.

He may never care about this, but it could still make a difference.