You’re freaked out…your daughter is about to enter 9th grade and if it’s anything like your own experience, it’s going to be a nightmare. But you want to stay calm; you want to assure her everything’s going to be just fine, yet inside you are totally freaking out. The jocks, the cheerleaders, the debate team, and the quiet ones—they’re all still there just like they were for you. But are today’s kids dealing with the same issues in a Web 2.0 world? (Or is it 3.0 now, we can’t keep up!?) Or is the new millennium high school a land where new challenges and stereotypes reign? Author Marissa Walsh bridges the gap with her witty yet applicable novel, A Field Guide To High School, that is sure to have you ROTFL. But this is the perfect tome for your teen to help them tackle this major moment in his/her life. Teens (and moms) will learn:

High school is not like the movies.
People actually study (and aren’t reprimanded for it) and parties are not nearly the large-scale performance art as they seem to be. Though “Gossip Girl” may be onto something for certain schools. But don’t sweat it. You survived…your kids will, too.

Be yourself when getting dressed.
Don’t try too hard! Other students will prey on matchy-matchy first-day outfits. Some wear sweats, while others look like they’re ready for the catwalk. But for first day, cool jeans and a casual shirt will stand out in a good way.

Any teasing won’t last forever.
Chin up. Everyone gets picked on. Even the kids who are doing the picking—it’s probably because they’ve been teased in the past, too. It’s all about paying your dues. Let your kid know that it is not a permanent sentencing.

You’re not alone.
It is common to view the upperclassmen as daunting creatures. But have you forgotten your allies—fellow freshman! Chances are they are walking around just as clueless. The first week is the worst, it’ll get better…we promise.

Be a social go-getter.
Remind your soon-to-be ninth grader that it is up to them to pave their social path. It is truly their decision to interact and make the most of an awkward (at first) situation. Those who respond positively will be the ones worth keeping around.

Cliques are overrated.
Don’t be put off by the automatic cliques that mold during the first week of school. Everyone is equally self-conscious and self-aware. How to fight it? Be a clique-hopper and socialize with students from different groups.
 

Check out the book here.