246. Why Tweens Push Back: What Parents Often Misunderstand
Why does your once cooperative child suddenly argue about everything?
If you're parenting a tween, you may be noticing more attitude, pushback, and emotional reactions. Many parents interpret this behavior as disrespect or defiance, but developmental research suggests something very different is happening.
During the tween years (roughly ages 9–13), children begin developing stronger independent thinking and identity formation. This natural stage of development often leads to increased questioning of rules, negotiation attempts, and emotional intensity.
In this episode, Tess Connolly explains why tween pushback is a normal part of development and how parents can respond in ways that strengthen connection rather than escalate conflict.
You’ll learn practical parenting strategies that help you:
• Reduce power struggles with your tween
• Respond calmly when your child pushes back
• Encourage independence while still holding healthy boundaries
• Improve communication with tweens and early teenagers
If parenting your tween has started to feel more challenging lately, this episode will help you better understand what’s happening and how to navigate it with confidence.
Listen now to learn why tweens push back and what parents often misunderstand about this stage of development.
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📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here👇: [email protected] Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com
🆘 Need 1:1 Support? Book right here to connect with Tess for a 45-minute FREE “Parent Reset” session: Parent Reset Call
⭐Got screen time problems at home? Get the Tech Reset Agreement here 👉Download the Tech Reset Agreement
⭐️Join the Family and get your weekly Mindful Kids and Family Journal here: https://www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com/join-the-family (Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents, and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)
The Single Parenting Reset Show supports single moms, working moms, and all parents with practical parenting tips on screen time, emotional regulation, co-parenting, stress relief, setting boundaries, building trust, and raising confident tweens and teens, while tackling tech addiction, behavior problems, and parent burnout with conscious parenting strategies for stronger family connection.
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