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She loves me. She loves me not.

Romantic relationships begin to play a central role in the tween years and the formation of romantic relationships (including crushes) is an important developmental task of adolescence. Be an eParent®! Tweens use text messaging, Snapchat, Instagram and other social connection apps to build romantic relationships. Establish good habits early. Kids need guidelines and rules about what […]

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“Say cheese!” (And don’t blink.)

Taking photos can be a safe way for your child to express her feelings, ideas, and interests. What might be hard to say out loud, can be communicated via the real-life photos he takes. Be an eParent®! Encourage your child to share a new photo each week via Instagram or Twitter or some other photo-sharing application. […]

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How is being a parent like being a rock star?

Both parents and rock stars spend endless hours on the road with too many people in the vehicle! Take advantage of this time on the road to have your child (and their friends) and talk about issues that matter, like local politics, current events, or religious differences. Sometimes not being able to make direct eye-contact […]

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Hello child. Who are you TODAY?

Figuring out “WHO AM I?” is an important piece of teenage development. This identity formation is a time when tweens “try on” new ideas, experiences, and beliefs. The things your child 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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Is your child billing you for tech support?

Your child may know more than you do about technology, but you know what’s best for your child. While it may feel awkward when your teen provides your tech support, it doesn’t mean you relinquish your parenting role. Research shows that the style of parenting you use really matters in these situations. It’s your role […]

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When the cat’s away, the mice will play.

Keeping tabs on your teen can be challenging as they spend more time away from home and away from your watchful eye. Yet monitoring your tween has never been more important! Getting to know the parents of your tweens’ friends is one easy way to keep tabs on your child’s activities and behaviors even when you are […]

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Just because you can do it doesn’t mean you should!

You might know that your tween’s brain is under major construction. But did you know that physical coordination is one of the first skills the brain and body master? As your child’s confidence in her physical abilities grow, she may want to test the boundaries of what she can do. Be an eParent®! Join your […]

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Ever feel like you are signaling S.O.S. for a parenting lifeline?

Parenting is hard work and even harder when it is done alone or in isolation. Those who are most able to ride out storms and rough waters seek out support from others. When you’re feeling supported and secure, you are better able to care for yourself and, in turn, your child. Be an eParent®! Take the time […]

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