Is your child approaching the tween stage? If you’re uncertain, consider this checklist to assess their development. If you answered “yes” to fewer than eight statements, take a breath—you’re still navigating the world of young childhood. However, if you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve, this is your opportunity for a glimpse into what lies ahead.
Here are some signs that your child might be entering tweenhood:
- Your child prefers to order from the adult menu, deeming kids’ meals too juvenile. Yet, they still request familiar favorites like chicken nuggets and macaroni and cheese—just in a more upscale version. And of course, dessert is still a must.
- Characters from shows like “Max and Ruby,” “Sofia the First,” and “The Amazing World of Gumball” have become their new best friends, demanding hours of attention.
- The Tooth Fairy has been replaced with regular trips to the orthodontist, leading to expenses that far exceed what the Tooth Fairy ever provided, even on her off days.
- Animated films are now considered childish, especially those you were excited to watch together.
- Your child no longer refers to broccoli as “trees” or raisins on celery sticks as “ants on a log,” and they have also decided they won’t consume either.
- The cost of toys has skyrocketed; if you thought big Lego sets were pricey, just wait until you look into upgrading your family’s data plan.
- “Mommy” is now simply “Mom.”
- You suddenly feel like you’re out of touch. Previously, you held all the answers, but now your child seems determined to defy your suggestions. You might try reverse psychology, but with tweens, it’s often best to save your energy for later challenges, like assisting with algebra homework.
- Your child shops in stores where the prices exceed what you’ve spent on yourself all year.
- Their bedroom door remains closed for most of the day, only opening when they need food, a charger, or when you are out of sight. On the bright side, closed doors mean you can avoid staring at the pile of laundry they’ve left behind.
- Any comment you make is typically met with an eye roll and possibly a “whatever.” In these moments, it’s beneficial to remind yourself that this is just a phase and to head to your favorite show for a little distraction.
- They outgrow sneakers faster than you can budget for them.
- The once-effective strategy of timing them for bedtime now results in blank stares. You can no longer time their speed in getting pajamas on or completing chores—an unfortunate reality for all involved.
- And perhaps the most poignant sign: they no longer want to hold your hand. This can be a bittersweet moment, but on the upside, hugs are still allowed—just not in public.
How did you fare on this checklist? If you found that more than half of these signs resonate with you, congratulations! Pour yourself a cup of tea and enjoy a binge-watch of your child’s favorite show, knowing you’re entering a new phase of parenting.
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Summary
This article outlines 14 signs that indicate your child may be transitioning into tweenhood, highlighting changes in preferences, behavior, and social interactions. Recognizing these signs can help parents prepare for the shifts in their child’s development.