. About Your Middle Years Child | Middle Years | A Parent or Caregiver | Manitoba Parent Zone

About Your Middle Years Child

Middle Years Children - Manitoba Parent Zone - Healthy Child Manitoba

Sometimes referred to as 'tweens' or pre-teens, children that are nine to 13 years old are considered to be in their middle years. At this age, your child is likely developing an increased sense of independence and may push you for more and more opportunities to be on their own. For example, they may want to go to the mall or skate park with friends or wanting to decide what clothes they want to buy. Despite this desire for independence, 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! It may also be hard to balance what you believe is good for them and leave them with enough independence to be their own person. Parenting a pre-teen is a different adventure every day and may frustrating at times. Fortunately, your child’s maturity is growing during this time period and this gives you the opportunity to bond with 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.