They're growing up. Your 9-year-old packs his own suitcase before the family vacation. Your 11-year-old doesn't want you to open her dresser drawers. And don't even think about picking out a CD for a 12-year-old.
"Tweens," not yet teenagers but no longer little kids, love their increasing independence. But happily for parents, 9-to-12-year-olds still look to you for direction on important decisions. This is a time to give it your A.L.L.-ask, listen, learn-so that you'll be better prepared to understand and respond to the changes your child is experiencing. And, most important, remember to have an open dialogue-to talk, talk, talk-and together you'll be able to meet the challenges.
