Is your child inching closer to those tween years? If you’re not quite sure, take a look at this checklist! If you find yourself saying “yes” to fewer than eight of these signs, you can breathe easy—you’re still in the sweet little-kid phase. But if you’re curious about what’s around the corner, here’s a sneak peek!
You might have a tween if…
- Your child insists on ordering from the adult menu, declaring that kids’ meals are far too childish. However, they still desire the same nuggets and mac and cheese, just in a fancier presentation. And yes, dessert is still non-negotiable—cookies or ice cream, please!
- Their new best friends include characters like Jessie, Drake, Josh, and a cast of other teen icons. Expect hours of updates about their latest adventures.
- The Tooth Fairy has been replaced by regular orthodontist visits, which definitely cost way more than any lost tooth ever did—even when the Tooth Fairy had to make up for a missed visit with extra cash.
- Animated films are deemed “baby stuff,” especially those you were eagerly anticipating to watch together.
- Broccoli is no longer referred to as “trees,” and “ants on a log” is a phrase of the past. Surprise, surprise—they’ve also decided to stop eating both!
- The price tags on toys have skyrocketed. Remember how you thought those big Lego sets were pricey? Just wait until you start comparing phone plans!
- “Mommy” is out; “Mom” is in.
- Suddenly, you’re not the fountain of wisdom you once were. Your suggestions are met with resistance, and you might be tempted to try reverse psychology. But remember, this is tween logic—save your clever tactics for their algebra homework!
- They’re shopping in stores where the prices are higher than what you’ve spent on yourself this year.
- Their bedroom door opens only a few times a day—usually when you’re not around, for a snack, or to retrieve the charger. At least when it’s closed, you can avoid the sight of that week’s worth of laundry piled high.
- Any comment you make is usually met with an eye roll and a dismissive “whatever.” Take a deep breath, ignore it, and retreat to your favorite show. Repeat to yourself: this is only a phase.
- Sneakers seem to wear out faster than you can save up for new ones.
- The classic “It’s bedtime! Let’s see how fast you can get upstairs!” is now met with a blank stare. Timing them for putting on pajamas or cleaning up? Forget it!
- And perhaps the saddest sign of all: they no longer want to hold your hand. It’s a bittersweet moment, but on the bright side, hugs are still allowed (as long as you’re not in public).
So, how did you do? If you found yourself agreeing with more than half of these signs, congratulations! Sit back, pour yourself a cup of tea, and enjoy a marathon of your child’s new favorite show.
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Summary: If your child is showing signs of tween behavior, from ordering from the adult menu to rolling their eyes at your advice, it might be time to prepare for the exciting—and sometimes challenging—years ahead.