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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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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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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When No Means No

Even though your tween may be more involved in shaping some family rules, there are still non-negotiable issues, like safety or screen time, which you will need to enforce. Identify your non-negotiable issues and then maintain these rules in the family. Be an eParent®!  Remind your child about the rules that are firm and can’t […]

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What? You’re not watching Sesame Street anymore?

As your 9- to 14-year old matures and grows so do her interests and abilities. Although it may seem like only yesterday (and it may have been) that your tween was watching younger shows, she may suddenly be ready for new responsibilities and privileges. Be an eParent®! As your tween matures, work out new responsibilities and […]

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Balancing act: -n 1.a circus act in which a performer displays his or her balancing ability 2. a situation requiring careful balancing of opposing groups, views, or activities

Your relationship with your tween can be a balancing act. Your tween’s behavior can trigger many emotions in you. By managing your own impulses, you can avoid giving your tween all the control. Know when to step in or get out of the way! Fighting over little things can lead to constant bickering and negative […]

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“You aren’t the boss of me!” “I can take care of myself.”

Independence and autonomy are critical to healthy teen development. One of the most important tasks for all adolescents is learning the skills that will help them make healthy choices and manage their own lives. As your young teen becomes more responsible, increase his or her options for independence. Be an eParent®! Work with your child to register […]

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I caught you (doing something good)!

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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“You can do it!”

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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