How long before your ninth grader settled in?

[Anonymous]

We’re at a new 9-12 and child doesn’t know anyone. DC is going out for a sport now and is interested in some clubs. So far classes are “okay.”

I know it’ll take a while and that in part it’s my own anxiety, but how long did it take for your child to settle in to classes and find new friends?

Any helpful tips to support them?

[Anonymous]

Doing a fall sport is an excellent way to get to know people, so that’s great.

My DC lucked into a great group of friends by mid-September. Another student also new as a 9th grader joined their group in January, so it took more than a semester for him to find his people (the whole group is still going strong 3 years later, with a couple additions each year).

[Anonymous]

The good news is that it is a 9-12, so even if a bunch of kids came from the same middle schools everyone is in some way finding their way.

The fall sport is a great way to find their people. Joining clubs can be hit or miss I have found, depending on how organized they are by the students or faculty.

Socialization can happen naturally in classes as students start preparing for tests or reviewing material, etc.

Give it time and good luck!