How can I help my daughter get through the middle school clique thing?

Self-esteem is the key to getting through the whole middle school clique thing. Talk with your daughter about the pecking order. Let her know that most kids who pick on others probably are not getting the love and attention they need at home and that they need to put someone else down to feel better about themselves.

Let your child know this clique thing won't last forever: It's a middle school phenomenon. Tell her that she should try to make friends with kids she can trust, kids who will be there for her. Remind her that it's not the number of friends you have but the kind of friends you have that's important.