Tween Scene: 5 Tips to Survive (and Secretly Enjoy) Life with a Pre-Teen

They’re not quite kids anymore, but definitely not teens either. They roll their eyes like pros, suddenly have opinions about everything from fashion to feminism, and communicate largely through sighs, shrugs, and “Muuum!” Welcome to the tween years — that delightful mix of chaos, cuddles, and contradictions.

Here are five tips to help you not just survive your tween… but actually enjoy this weirdly wonderful phase.

1. Pick your battles — and your wardrobe.

You may think that crop top is too short, they think it’s “literally fine.” Not every disagreement needs to turn into a full-blown debate. If it’s not about safety, sometimes it’s okay to let them win. Save your energy for the real issues — like screen time and curfews.

2. Listen more, lecture less.

Tweens love to feel heard. (They just don’t love advice.) Try swapping lectures for questions: “What do you think?” or “How did that make you feel?” You’ll be surprised how much they open up when you stop trying to fix everything.

3. Give them space — but stay close.

One minute they want to be glued to you watching a movie, the next they slam their bedroom door because you “don’t get it.” It’s all part of the push-and-pull of growing up. Stay available, keep your humour, and know they’ll wander back when they’re ready.

4. Laugh. A lot.

Tween drama can feel intense — for them and for you. Laughter keeps things in perspective. Roll your eyes together at their weird new slang, giggle over TikToks, or make fun of your own 90s fashion choices. It’s bonding gold.

5. Remember: they still need you (even if they won’t admit it).

Underneath the attitude and independence is the same kid who used to need bedtime stories. They might not ask for cuddles anymore, but they still crave reassurance, consistency, and love — even if it comes in the form of a late-night chat over fries.

So, hang in there, Mama. The tween years may test your patience, but they’ll also fill your heart with pride. Because one day, that eye-rolling, moody little human will turn back into your best friend — and you’ll miss these messy, magical years more than you think.