Sept2012_The Preadolescent
‘Tweeny’!
A Guide for Parents in 250 words
This period can begin from age 10/11 when biological changes begin to happen rapidly and psychological and emotional changes kick in stronger than a footy ball connecting with the net. Parents are often directly challenged and your beautiful, angelic child can become obstinate, argumentative and angry. Fatigue and moodiness can make regular appearances and self preoccupation and doubts may dominate.
Socially the ‘Tweenie’ may begin to show a sudden and intense interest in their own sexuality, and in those foreign creatures of the opposite gender. Sulkiness, secretiveness and withdrawal are also highlights of this time.
This is all normal! Yes, for your child to develop and integrate a self identity as they grow into young adults these are all experiences they need to have. Usually they do not all experience all of these ‘symptoms’, and not all at once – though some unlucky ones may.
On the up side this period of time is usually accompanied by inquisitiveness, enthusiasm (for projects/topics of their choosing), and a greater interest in discussion and debate.
To manage the challenges presented by this period in your child’s life, you can try to listen more than you talk, make time to be together – even if it is only in the car on the way to friends, offer and respect privacy, allow them separate interests and let them know you love them – no matter what!
Early Teens – next month. In the meantime, seek help if you feel everything is just too much.
Robyn Maggs
Eyes of Heart
Phone: 3103 1249
Socially the ‘Tweenie’ may begin to show a sudden and intense interest in their own sexuality, and in those foreign creatures of the opposite gender. Sulkiness, secretiveness and withdrawal are also highlights of this time.
This is all normal! Yes, for your child to develop and integrate a self identity as they grow into young adults these are all experiences they need to have. Usually they do not all experience all of these ‘symptoms’, and not all at once – though some unlucky ones may.
On the up side this period of time is usually accompanied by inquisitiveness, enthusiasm (for projects/topics of their choosing), and a greater interest in discussion and debate.
To manage the challenges presented by this period in your child’s life, you can try to listen more than you talk, make time to be together – even if it is only in the car on the way to friends, offer and respect privacy, allow them separate interests and let them know you love them – no matter what!
Early Teens – next month. In the meantime, seek help if you feel everything is just too much.
Robyn Maggs
Eyes of Heart
Phone: 3103 1249
