A major task (and challenge) for 9-14 year olds is to adjust to their physically and sexually maturing bodies. While the physical development isn’t different than it was 30-40 years ago, how tweens and parents learn about puberty has changed. Be an eParent®! Bookmark informational websites on puberty (such as those listed below) on your […]
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Avoid gaps in communication with your tween. Track your teen’s activities. Whether it is an organized event or a social outing, knowing where they are, who they are with, and when they will be home helps ensure their safety and wellbeing. Be an eParent®! Set up an online calendar, such as Google calendar, for the family […]
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While it might seem like a contradiction, children’s thinking skills are growing in their preteen years. Provide opportunities that help your preteen or teen practice decision-making. Be an eParent®! Involve your teen in making rules when using digital media such as the amount of screen time or the selection of video games. Digital media is […]
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Figuring out “WHO AM I?” is an important piece of teenage development. This identify formation is a time when teens “try on” new ideas, experiences and beliefs. The things your teen likes or dislikes are often the face he chooses to show the world as he figures out his personality. Be an eParent®! Spend time […]
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While your child is still too young to vote in upcoming elections, the political season can offer some great topics for you and your teen to connect on. Teens love to have their opinions be known and it isn’t too early to build excitement and encourage your child to become active in civic issues. Be […]
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Your child is making decisions and taking important actions every day. Recognizing good choices is one way to show appreciation for his or her positive decisions. Be an eParent®! Text your co-parent to share information about your child’s good choices. Sharing your child’s good choices with a co-parent not only demonstrates that you are paying […]
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Sealed with a kiss. We may not send many cards by snail mail any more, but sending cards and notes is still a good way to remind people we don’t see often of our love. Be an eParent®! Help your child send free e-cards to all of his or her grandparents and encourage the grandparents […]
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Children’s abilities and needs change as they develop. Behaviors that were once acceptable, like throwing food on the floor, become less acceptable as we expect our children to better manage their feelings and make smarter choices. Parents play an important role in helping children become more responsible. Be an eParent®! For younger children especially, create […]
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Although your tween may no longer be looking to you for hugs (at least in public), your continued relationship and communication with your teen is still very “cool” (and important)! One reason many teens find hugs to be “uncool” is because teens are busy seeking their own independence. Public hugs can make a teen feel like […]
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Dealing with emotions can be challenging (even for adults!). It is important that children feel comfortable sharing their feelings and showing them in socially acceptable ways. As a parent, listening to and supporting your child is essential for helping them learn about coping skills. Talk with your child about what sorts of items or activities […]
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