Focus on Better Behavior

The stage between middle childhood and adolescence is usually the hardest between the ages of 10-12, this will prepare you for the teen years which have been known to be some of the most challenging years of parenthood. Tweens start coming into their own and may begin to back-talk, ignore and roll their eyes at you when you try to discipline or just try and talk to them. You need to stand your ground as a parent and let them know what is acceptable and what is not. Keep your cool when dealing with your tween, you don’t to lose control and fly off the handle as they may model the same behavior. When explaining your reasons for discipline be form and don’t negotiate. Try using natural consequences when their behavior is not acceptable like pointing out that if their homework doesn’t get done, they’ll be in trouble with their teacher. Keep your sense of humor and keep a positive attitude and give yourself breaks away from your kids to avoid getting worn down. Most of all don’t take their behavior personally some of this behavior is part of what they need to go through to grow into adulthood.