OMG PAW G2G. Oh my god, parents are watching, got to go. Today's text-messaging middle schoolers may seem like a different species from how parents remember themselves as sixth, seventh, and eighth graders. Children are often forced to confront serious issues like drugs, violence, sexuality, and technology at an age that would have been unthinkable even a decade ago. So it's natural for parents to worry about these crucial years. Still, educator Joe Bruzzese believes that this time can be full of positive transformation as your child gains independence and your parental role shifts from omnipresent manager to supportive coach. Timely topics include cyberbullying, depression, and choosing realistic and rewarding extracurricular activities. The middle school years can and should be a time of exciting change and opportunity; A Parents' Guide to the Middle School Years presents what you need to know to survive and thrive as a family.