Tweens

Tweens are in a unique stage of life that often seems to be overlooked and misunderstood due to their physical appearance and growth and cognitive abilities not always quite matching with their emotional and/or maturity levels. We see tweens that may act or respond one way (perhaps the way we would prefer) in one situation and/or environment and then completely different in another (perhaps acting “younger”). This can lead to frustration and difficulties for all involved including both parents/caregiver and the tween themselves.

As mentioned before, the physical (and hormonal) growth and changes that occur amongst tweens can significantly vary and that will continue through teen years. These drastic variations can lead to challenges in peer relationships, self-esteem, self-confidence, and more as the desire to fit in begins to gain in importance. We also often unintentionally have varying expectations for others based on certain attributes such as physical and/or cognitive advanced children being thought of or expected to act older than they actually are.

In session with tweens it can look very different for each child and even each session with the same child. Some wish to engage in more of the play therapy type activities, others wish to engage in more of a traditional talk therapy, and some engage in both play and talk type therapies. I leave that choice and freedom to the child so that they can have a sense of control in their lives.