In an era dominated by technology, the age at which children receive their first phone has steadily decreased. In fact, a 2021 report by Common Sense Media, a nonprofit that provides entertainment and technology recommendations for families, revealed that a… read more
Tween/young teen (11–15)
Everything to Know About the Mandatory EKGs for Florida Student Athletes
Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, high school student-athletes will be required to undergo and pass an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) at least once before competing in school athletics. The requirement comes with the passing of Florida Senate Bill 1070,… read more
Digital Footprints: What Colleges and Employers See
The college admission or job search process can be stressful, with lengthy online applications, perfecting a resume and cover letter, test scores and balancing life with academics or work. With the rise of social media and phone usage, a digital… read more
Sleepover Ready? Signs and Success Tips
The first sleepover is a milestone filled with excitement: television, snacks and the thrill of staying up past bedtime. But first-time sleepovers don't always go as planned, with many teary-eyed children calling their parents at 2 a.m. asking to be… read more
Why Tweens Suddenly Want More Privacy
As your child enters tweenhood, you might notice a slight shift — their once open bedroom door is now closed. Some days, you might barely even catch a glimpse of them. This increasing desire for privacy is a common milestone… read more
How Teens Can Find Their Voice Through Activism
Adolescence is a time of growing independence, emerging values and a search for purpose. For many teens, volunteering and civic engagement aren’t just “nice to do,” they become powerful ways to shape identity, develop agency and build lifelong habits of… read more
How to Navigate Body Odor and Your Tween!
As our children transition into “tween-hood,” we notice a variety of changes due to the influx of hormones. These can include mood changes, body development, hair growth and, of course, body odor. Girls typically begin puberty between the ages of… read more
The Dating Game: Is Your Teen Ready?
The teenage years can be some of the best years in a person’s life. During this time, your child may find a best friend, explore a newfound talent or even fall in love for the first time. But how do… read more
Is Handwriting Still Important
When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone? Some may answer, “never,” while others begin to reflect on days long ago. Our reliance on phones, tablets and computers fundamentally changed how we communicate with others. Yet many… read more
Calm and Focused: Meditation for Tweens
Key Takeaways Meditation can help tweens manage stress, improve focus and regulate emotions during the challenging pre-teen years. Benefits of meditation include better sleep, attention, mood and overall well-being, making it a helpful daily coping tool. Tweens can start with… read more