Tweens. What an age! They are in a fragile stage of figuring out who they are and what being an adult feels like. They are starting to have more responsibility at home and at school. They relish this newfound responsibility, yet still need much guidance to handle it.
The modern world has brought unbelievable pressures on these kids. Technology is the biggest challenge. Whether it is a phone, tablet or computer, these tweens have access to content that they are not ready for. Whether it is sexual explicit material, foul language or inappropriate cyber relationships, we need to be vigilant of the risks and ready to preempt the problems.
Sit with your children early and often to check in with their mindset regarding the above. Have an open relationship about their fears and any curiosities. Be prepared to discuss all aspects of tween issues and set their moral code on yours. If you abdicate this responsibility, they will learn it from the Internet or a peer that may have very different morals than you.
Set the parental controls on ALL devices including their personal devices. It is not in their best interests to have uncontrolled access to the Internet.
Periodically stroll their social media pages and make sure they know that you do it. Look for friends that are inappropriate and help them understand why it or they are inappropriate.
Help them understand that sleep and food are paramount to success in school. On average they will need 8 - 10 hours of sleep every night.
Get them on a whole foods vitamin and some fish oil.
Promote a culture of learning at home with self exploration and parental backup when roadblocks arise in their studies. Encourage resilience!!!! This is so important for their future. They need to struggle a little to gain the self esteem of success.
Teach them,
Dr. M
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