Sometimes referred to as 'tweens', children in their middle years from about age nine to 13 are developing an increased sense of independence and may be pushing their parents for more and more opportunities to be on their own (wanting to go to the mall or skate park with friends). Yet many tweens are caught between childhood and adolescence. One day it's superheroes and stickers, and the next day it's pop stars and sleepovers. Yikes!
These changes can be very difficult for parents, too. Parents often feel caught when parenting a tween because it can be hard to understand their needs. It can be even more challenging to meet their needs without terminally embarrassing them!
Use this online information and these links to community resources to help you make decisions that will keep your child healthy and happy and leave you with fewer gray hairs.