As I look back, it feels like just yesterday I was knee-deep in diapers, binge-watching children’s shows, prepping for kindergarten, and shopping for adorable outfits. Those days are long gone, and while there’s a touch of nostalgia, I can’t say I’m sad. I’m not as drained as I used to be, but parenting a tween girl is definitely a different kind of exhausting. It’s a whole new world, and even though we’ve all been tweens ourselves, wrapping our heads around our own daughters entering this phase can be quite the challenge.
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Earbuds: The New Must-Have Accessory.
“WHAT?” she replies, immersed in her iPod Touch. It’s the third (okay, maybe fifth) time I’ve called her name, and even though she’s just a few feet away, it takes several shouts (and rising volume levels) to finally snag her attention. Earbuds have become her go-to accessory faster than you can say “fashion statement.” -
Minecraft Mania.
When she was little, Minecraft was her jam. Now, it’s all about watching Minecraft YouTube videos. Stampy, PopularMMOs, and The Diamond Minecart are just a few names that echo through our house. I’m endlessly grateful for those earbuds, even if it means yelling over her favorite YouTube personalities. Seriously, how many times can one endure “HELLOOOooooooo!!! This is STAMPY!!!”? -
Best Friends, Frenemies, Repeat.
One week she’s proclaiming her best friend to be Lily, and the next, they’re sworn enemies. “What happened?” I ask, and she insists, “Nothing. She just hates me!” And then a week later, they’re back to being besties. Phrases like, “I’m sure it will blow over,” have become my lifeline in navigating this emotional rollercoaster. -
The Great Shaving Debate.
I remember girls starting to shave in middle school, but my daughter was clamoring to shave her legs at just 9! I tried to delay it with “You don’t need to yet,” but that didn’t work. After a comment from a boy during basketball season, I finally caved. It’s her body, her choice, and hey, at least she asked instead of sneaking my razor like I once did. -
Movie Nights: A Double-Edged Sword.
Having a tween girl means there are tons of movies we both want to see. The flip side? Well, the same applies to the films I just can’t stand. Sigh. -
The Hug Factor.
While she’s definitely grown up, my tween girl hasn’t completely hit the “don’t touch me” teenage phase just yet. Random hugs in the kitchen and snuggles on the couch are still a thing. I’m cherishing these moments while they last. -
Wit and Wisdom.
The toddler years were exhausting, but now I find myself mentally drained by her sharp opinions and clever retorts. It’s like a debate club every day! I often realize she’s just as stubborn as I am. Who would’ve thought? -
Baby Fever.
Tween girls have a soft spot for babies. When we’re out, my daughter lights up the room, scooping up toddlers and keeping them entertained. I know she secretly wishes for a baby sibling, but we’re good with our two, thank you very much! -
Sleep Patterns Have Shifted.
After years of early wake-ups, my tween now enjoys her beauty sleep. She goes to bed around 9 p.m. (okay, maybe closer to 9:30) and sleeps in until nearly 9 a.m. on weekends. This gives me precious hours of quiet time with my coffee (and her little brother) before she surfaces. -
Nostalgia is Real.
Those 80s styles I remember? They’re back! From off-the-shoulder shirts to endless reruns of nostalgic shows, my daughter is discovering all the things I loved. “Oh my gosh, Mom, you won’t believe what Kimmy Gibbler just did!” Yes, I can believe it. I’ve been there!
Despite the occasional eye-roll and “yeah, but…” moments, my tween girl has a big heart. I admire her confidence and willingness to embrace challenges. I hope she never loses that spark!
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In summary, parenting a tween girl is a blend of nostalgia, emotional ups and downs, and shared experiences. While the challenges are real, the joy and connection are priceless.