Parenting a Pre-Teen

Parenting a Pre-Teen

Tips on creating a Parenting Plan for a Pre-Teen, age 10 to 12 years.

Pre-teens are preparing to make the leap into adolescence. They become far more independent and want to do things for themselves. They pay attention to the way they look and the acceptance of a peer group is very important. Their increased ability to think logically and their more developed sense of conscience may lead to stronger judgments, statements of opinion, and increased arguments. They can discuss issues in detail, want explanations for other’s decisions, and want the freedom to solve problems on their own. They may side more with their peers and confide in them more readily. They will often choose to be with their friends over their family.

Children begin to develop and test values and belief systems. Children this age need to be able to express their feelings but must recognize that the parents make the final decisions. They may choose to side with one parent over the other. This may change based on the specific issue or the parenting style. They need to be encouraged and given permission to love both parents and understand that the parents’ separation matters are not their burden.

There is a difficult balance between providing structure and creating the chance for independence. Families need flexibility so the child may have the time required with friends and activities as well as with both parents. Parents need to encourage the move towards independence while providing reasonable and consistent limits and boundaries.

There is cause for concern if a pre-teen child loses interest in friends and other relationships and begins to isolate (spending extended times in his room, skipping meals and activities, not going out or not answering the phone). A child working too hard at being “too good” could suggest a high level of internal stress or desire to cover up. If the child begins to take sides or feels the need to take sides with one parent there is a greater chance of depression and rebellion. A change in school performance and peer group may indicate some loss of well-being.

When Designing a Plan for Your Pre-Teen, Remember:

• Parenting plans must provide frequent, meaningful contact with both parents.
• Pre-Teen children do well with many different options for parenting plans as long as the contract is structured and consistent. When possible, plans should include overnights during the school week and on weekends so that both parents may be active participants.
• Schedules can provide longer times away from either parent (up to a week) but must take into consideration the child’s activities and school responsibilities.
• Children should be given open telephone access to the other parent and be given privacy for the calls.
• Rules and routine between the households should have some consistency and continuity for increased success.
• Develop a format for discussing the child’s academic and extra-curricular activities without including the child in discussions (journal, email communication, phone conference, “business-like” meeting).
• Children can be consulted about their views and suggestions, but the parents should still make the final decision.

For more coParenting blogs and tools to help you in your coParenting journey, CLICK HERE and download our FREE coParenting app.