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 and require that all events outside the home are entered on the calendar.
At this stage of youth development, it may feel like your tween is “separating” from you. Look at it more as working together to negotiate a change in the relationship that includes a balance of independence and ongoing connection. Tweens need and actually want parents to be aware of their activities, including school performance, after-school activities, peer relationships, and recreational activities. As teens get older and more responsible, this requires less direct supervision and more quality communication. Get started today!
You many enjoy watching this video of examples of using digital technology to track your teen’s activities.
To learn more contact UW-Extension Family Living Programs or like Family Living on Facebook.