Talking to Your Tween

Times have drastically changed since the years I was in middle school. While I’m sure there was the occasional pregnancy that was certainly not a common issue. In fact, I remember my first kiss being in middle school and the big deal was that he used his tongue. Oh to go back to those more carefree, innocent days. Okay, they weren’t exactly innocent but they were pretty darn close compared to what middle school tweens have to deal with today. One of the mistakes that some parents of tween children make is that they think conversations about certain topics such … Continue reading

Great Books For Your 7th or 8th Grader

Take your young teen to your local library this summer and check out some of these great titles. Read my recent blog to learn about the importance of summer reading programs and how they can benefit your child. Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain Tom Sawyer is a lovable rogue who is constantly getting into trouble. This book outlines his adventures with his best friend Huck as he runs away finds buried treasure, and even attends his own funeral. Every boy (and girl) will be able to relate to Tom. Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko This … Continue reading

Profile: The Tween Years

What are the tween years? The tween years are those years between approximately 8 and 13 when a child is not yet a teen but no longer just a little kid. They are often overlooked by parents and experts, alike because they happen to fall between two very busy and exciting stages of life – early childhood and the teen years. But this is a tumultuous time for kids as they transition from childhood to the teen years. It is a time of extremes – emotions, fluctuations, expectations and responsibilities. Characteristics of a Tween: Tweens will often act like teenagers … Continue reading