Family and Parenting: Information For Families

From the ages of twelve to fourteen, a child experiences many different physical, emotional, mental, and social changes. This period of early adolescence is marked by the start of puberty. The voices of boys deepen, as they grow pubic and facial hair. Girls start menstruating at this stage; they also grow breasts and pubic hair. These changes may affect the way they think about themselves. Further, this sensitive stage is also a time of heightened peer pressure to use drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, and to engage in sexual activity. Other problems that may affect teens at this age include family issues, depression, and eating disorders. Stress is on the increase, as they make more of their decisions about school, friends, sports, and other issues in their lives. In general, the different changes they go through include:

1. Increased emphasis on looks, body image, and clothing
2. Periods of moodiness and lack of confidence
3. Focus on friends
4. Increased ability for complex thought
5. Anxiety from homework
6. Loss of interest in parents
7. A deeper understanding of right and wrong
8. Eating problems
9. Improved ability to express emotions through talking

The ages of twelve to fourteen can be very difficult. Parents need to support their kids. Trust is essential. Even though your child will become increasingly independent, he or she should feel your support. In order to safeguard your child’s interests, while giving her or him the space in which to grow, do the following:

1. Speak to your teenager about drinking, smoking, drugs, and sex.
2. Get to know your child’s friends.
3. Make sure you eat together as a family. Mealtime is important.
4. Ask your teen about school life.
5. Promote exercise and helping around the house.
6. Promote independent decision-making, but help your teenager make choices.
7. Show respect toward your child’s opinions and feelings.

Physical safety is also of prime concern during this stage of life. Twelve to fourteen year olds are often the victim of motor vehicle crashes, sports injuries, and more. With peer pressure playing a prevalent role in the lives of teens today, parents need to be very cautious about their kids, in terms of friends, activities, and habits. In order to keep your child safe, follow these precautions.

1. Make sure your child wears a helmet while riding a bicycle, motorcycle, and all-terrain vehicle.
2. Remind your teen about the importance of wearing seatbelts.
3. Be open while talking to your teenager about the dangers of drinking, smoking, drugs, and sex. Ask about what he or she knows about these issues. Also, ask about his or her thoughts. Further, let your child know about your thoughts and feelings. Answer all questions directly.
4. Tell your child about the importance of having friends who are involved in positive activities. Teach your child to avoid peers who promote unhealthy behavior.
5. Set regulations for your teen when he or she is alone at home. Discuss issues like having friends over, emergencies, and more.
6. Keep track of where your teenager is and if there is an adult around.