Transitioning from parenting a young child to parenting a tween can have its challenges, but keeping an open mind and learning to be more flexible will bring you and your child more joy. Adapting your parenting to fit the needs of your teenager-to-be requires a change in rules, communication patterns, expectations, collaboration, and ways of connecting with your child.

Consider the following scenarios. You are trying to get out the door in the morning, already running ten minutes late, and your preschooler refuses to put on his shoes. Bedtime is fast-approaching and your second grader refuses to take a shower and brush her teeth. It’s time to leave for an appointment and your middle schooler won’t turn off the TV.