The tween years can be an exciting yet treacherous time for a child. Beyond an increased awareness of physical and emotional changes, these 8- to 12-year-olds clinging to childlike innocence are pushed into the world of adolescence. "Around these years, children begin to become increasingly self-conscious, and this often drives social difficulties that did not exist in their lives before," said Dr. John Duffy, a Chicago-based clinical psychologist. "Of course, pushing the boundaries of freedoms and exhibiting new attitudes also arise during these years." Even though the tween years can test the strength and patience of the child and parent, it doesn't have to result in a game of survival. The key to a healthy parent-tween relationship relies on a clear understanding of boundaries and the struggles and freedoms the tween is now facing on a daily basis.
Month: August 2011
Going it Alone: Overcoming the Challenges of Single Parenting
At times, it may seem like it takes a village to raise a child, but for single parents, that village often feels like a party of one. Single parenting poses challenges for even the most organized mom or dad, and without an extra hand, it can seem like a daunting task.
Navigating After-School Care
In a society where it's common for both Mom and Dad to work outside the home, the typical 9-to-5 schedule doesn't afford many parents the luxury of picking up their children from school.
Beating the Back-to-School Blues
Although the sun is shining bright and summertime is a fresh reality for your child, many schools are ramping up for school sessions to begin in mid-August. At a time when your child is still focused on sleeping in late, hanging out at the pool with friends and camping in the backyard, the thought of returning to school can spark anxiety, fear and the back-to-school blues. Transition times are unsettling for the entire family, notes Anne Maxwell, a Colorado-based family therapist. "Even if the transition is to a known experience or event, it is a time of stress," Maxwell said. Many children respond to changes in routine by acting out, refusing to adopt a routine or withdrawing emotionally. As a parent, it's often a challenge to get your child into a school routine and keep the household positive despite the looming back to school thoughts and activities. Read the Rest of the Article Here
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 