The blog

Help for parents before high school starts.

Short reads about Year 7 and the year before it — what changes, why it changes, and what you can do about it. Written for the parent, not about the child.

4–6 minutes each For parents of Year 5–7 Things you can try tonight
They know the answer. They just won't say it.

They know the answer. They just won't say it.

They know the answer. They just won't say it.Raising Thinkers
Published on: 19/10/2026

Your child used to speak up without thinking. Now they sit still and say nothing. Here is what is happening in Year 7 classrooms and what you can do about it.

resilienceconfidenceyear 7classroomhigh school
Your child says they're not smart enough for high school

Your child says they're not smart enough for high school

Your child says they're not smart enough for high schoolRaising Thinkers
Published on: 28/09/2026

After a bad mark, your child has made a verdict: they are not smart enough for high school. Why that conclusion feels real to them, and what helps.

Your child has started comparing themselves to everyone

Your child has started comparing themselves to everyone

Your child has started comparing themselves to everyoneRaising Thinkers
Published on: 11/09/2026

Year 7 is the first place a child can see the whole field. Why comparison arrives now, what it does to a kid who was always near the top, and what helps.

Your child gives up the moment something gets hard

Your child gives up the moment something gets hard

Your child gives up the moment something gets hardRaising Thinkers
Published on: 04/09/2026

Quitting early is usually fear of being seen to fail, not laziness. What is behind it at twelve, and what builds the willingness to stay in the room.

Free guide for parents of Year 5, 6 and 7

Not sure where to start? Start here.

9 things to sort out before high school, built from what Australian parents told us worries them most. Each one comes with what to say, and one thing to try tonight.

Get the free guide
Free · straight to your inbox · for your phone or computer

Ready for more? See The B.R.I.D.G.E. Program, short video lessons for you and small tools for your child.

The free guide, 9 things to sort out before high school, on a phone
Raising Thinkers
Empowering the next generation

High school is a lot for a 12-year-old. We help Australian parents get their child ready — before it gets too much and they stop talking.

Company
Blog Contact us [email protected] Adelaide, South Australia

© 2026 Raising Thinkers Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.