The Tween Years
No longer kids but not yet teens… they are called Tweens. That stage when a child is between childhood and adolescence. Time before they hit that angst-filled teenage stage. It's that stage wherein some parents aren't really ready to let go of their babies; whereas their "babies" long for independence.
Most of them are confused and are excited to grow up too fast. They are interested in fashion, raring to rush into love and are ready to do what most parents think they are too young to do.
"It's a fine line when you're raising a tween: You want, and need, to stay close, but you need to give your child enough distance so she can grow and bloom."
As much as your tweenie may want to do things her way, do not withhold your offer of activities which you could do together. Show him/her that you will always be there for him/her. If he/she turns you down, don't be hurt.
It wouldn't be easy but you must try to understand his/her needs and not just what you think he/she needs. Listen!
Let your child develop his/her own personality. He/she knows best what he/she likes.
[source: scholastic]
It is always good to be more tolerant, to listen and be more responsive of our child's – whatever age – needs.
For more information on parenting teens and tweens, check out Linda Moran's site for some great insight and advice.
What about you? Any advice about parenting tweens that you would like to share with us?
March 28th, 2008 at 8:58 pm
This article, while not very detailed, hits the nail on the head. The hardest thing for parents is that tweens think they are ready for adult life, but they have a long way to go!