Introduction

Dear Tween Topics Reader,

They’re not quite children and not quite teenagers. Tweens are kids between the ages of 10 and 15 years old. This period of early adolescence is an exciting sometimes-scary time in a child’s life because of the major changes that take place during these years- puberty sets in and children begin the process of separating from their parents.

While these "in between" years can bring great joy, they can at times be painful for both parent and young adolescent. The more parents know about the tween years, the better equipped they will be to cope with this period in their child’s development and to foster a relationship that helps their tween grow toward maturity and independence.

The Tween Topics publication is one educational effort of Penn State Cooperative Extension to help parents become more competent. Utilizing research based information, the 2000 Tween Topics contains the knowledge our readers asked for in the 1999 Tween Topics Reader’s Survey. Contributors to this year’s publication focused on your priorities...assertiveness, communication, development, factors that influence behavior, peer pressure, responsibility, study skills, and early adolescent stress.

Above all, keep in mind that you, as a parent, are the most important key to raising a capable, caring tween.

Sincerely,

Penn State Cooperative Extension
Family and Consumer Science and 4-H Youth Development Agents

Credits

Editor: Christine A. Tomascik

Design & Layout: Chris McLaughlin

Contributors:

Marie Gill -Luzerne County Extension
Nancy Grotevant -Pike County Extension
Patricia Lagerman -Northumberland County Extension
Dawn Olson -Monroe County Extension
Mollie Phillips -Wyoming Valley West Middle School
Christine A. Tomascik -Luzerne County Extension

This publication is distributed through Penn State Cooperative Extension. To learn more about extension educational programs and information available to you, contact the office in your county.