Preteen years introduce new challenges to a child and parent. New fears, increased social awareness and self-esteem are some of the major issues facing middle school preteens. Misbehaving to fit in with peers or to attempt to establish their own identity is common in this phase of your child's development. Discipline should still be administered, however the need for a change in technique is now presenting itself.,
Step 1
Reassure your preteen and show approval and support upon acheivements. Letting your preteen feel loved and secure will reduce misbehavior intended to gain attention or test limits.
Step 2
Explain rules in a clear, concise manner. Keeping it short and sweet will let your preteen know that you are serious and that there are implications to be met if rules are broken intentionally.
Step 3
Punish your preteen comparable to the severity of the crime. For example, refusing to do homework can result in loss of television or phone time. Refusing to clean one's room can result in a weekend indoors, helping to clean the house. Do not overract when disciplining; you want your preteen to understand consequences of actions without losing control yourself.
Step 4
Communicate with your preteen. Don't talk at your child, talk to her. This means listening just as well as speaking. Get to know your preteen's fears and anxieties along with his joys and goals. This will make your preteen more comfortable when coming to you with important decisions.
Step 5
Work with the teachers and school staff at your preteen's middle school. Discipline should be done in conjunction with those who have daily access to your child. Fill the school in on what you are trying to accomplish and ask for assistance.
Tips and Warnings
- Always make sure you get to know your preteen's friends and his friend's parents. If you know the type of people your child hangs around, then you will be more effective at preventing some behaviors such as drug and alcohol abuse.
