10 things you should know about parenting pre-teens

Pre-teens, or tweens, are kids aged between 9 and 12 years old who are essentially leaving childhood and entering adolescence.

The phase can be an overwhelming and challenging one because your little one is no longer a 'child' although not yet a teenager, although they will display physical and behavioral changes.

And that can be a lot for both of you to handle.

10 things you should know about parenting pre-teens

Here are 10 things you should know about parenting pre-teens.

1. It's tough: There, we said it! There's hormones, an increased desire for independence, and a lot of emotions to deal with and for some kids, this phase is actually worse than official adolescence.
2. It's a rollercoaster: Just when you think you've got it all figured out.... BAM! Expected the unexpected, buckle up, and just be there for your child.
3. There's no defined path: Some kids will act out, throwing tantrums and really testing the boundaries, while others may become introverted.
4. It’s worse for them: Yes, we have to deal with the fallout and pick up the pieces but they are the ones going through the terrifying process of change. Remember, you once felt like this too. Be kind.
5. You're suddenly uncool: All the love they used to shower on you will now be aimed at their friends. And there will be lots of whispering and giggling and secrets you're not privy to. Accept it.
6. The smells: This is particularly relevant for boy moms, but girls aren't immune. Explain the importance of regular showers, and buy deodorant.
7. Your relationship will change: They'll call you embarrassing, ban you from walking them to the school gate, and roll their eyes every time you open your mouth. Don't take it personally!
8. You don’t understand: It doesn't matter what the subject matter is, you just won't understand. You were never their age, you just arrived on the planet as a fully-grown mom, and you'll never understand what it feels like to be them.
9. They are more grown up than you think: There is no harm in being guided by your tween to some extent. Try and get them to explain a little bit of what goes on in their social lives and what it means.
10. It's all part of life: It’s painful, it's frustrating, it's upsetting, but it's the beginning of our little people becoming adults. It doesn't mean you're losing them; it's just the next step into a world of independence. But you'll always be mom.