For the Parents/Guardians of an 12 year old

Characteristics the children may exhibit:

They feel very independent.

Their friends are more important than ever.

They occasionally like to be alone.

Their privacy is crucial.

They can be very critical of themselves.

They may be rebellious to parents and polite away from home.

They may have lots of questions about themselves and their own development....but the topic may be difficult for you to discuss with them.

You can help them by:

 setting realistic limits

 using democratic guidance techniques as much as possible

 being understanding and informative about their body and body changes

 channeling their energy in proper directions (e.g. work and sports)

 trying to be supportive and understanding, even though their  behavior and moods may be marked by new levels of intensity.