You've lived through 2 AM feedings, toddler temper tantrums, and
the back-to-school blues. So why is the word "teenager" causing
you so much anxiety? When you consider that the teen years are a
period of intense growth, not only physically but morally and
intellectually, it's understandable that it's a time of
confusion and upheaval for many families. Despite some adults'
negative perceptions about teens, they are often energetic,
thoughtful, and idealistic, with a deep interest in what's fair
and right. So, although it can be a period of conflict between
parent and child, the teen years are also a time to help kids
grow into the distinct individuals they will become.
Understanding the Teen Years So when, exactly, does adolescence
start? The message to send your kid is: Everybody's different.
There are early bloomers, late arrivers, speedy developers, and
slow-but-steady growers. In other words, there's a wide range of
what's considered normal. But it's important to make a (somewhat
artificial) distinction be