Middle School (11 to 13 years old)
Building Social Capital
At this age, there is a lot happening as children start to find themselves and connect with friends more. This is a time period where children really start learning about social capital and the value of relationships.
Below are some suggestions for you / the child to engage in the IEP / 504 Plan meetings. These guidelines are intended to encourage development of social capital and it is never too late to begin engaging in these ways:
- Start the meeting and provide introductions
- Understand the why behind the IEP / 504 Plan meeting
- Understand the importance of being an active member of the meeting
- Prepare one goal for the IEP / 504 Plan meeting
- Is there a new person (teacher, family member) you would like to be invited?
- Ask for your own copy of the IEP / 504 Plan
Outside of school, here are some suggestions on ways to build social capital:
- Sharing household responsibilities
- Be part of more activities and clubs
- Volunteer (example: help a neighbor, sign up to volunteer with a non-profit)
- Making more decisions such as who to spend time with and how to spend that time