A January 2016 study of over 2,200 moms revealed that the most difficult parenting years weren’t during infancy or the “terrible twos” – in fact, the hardest period by far was reported to be while their children were in middle school. Marking the beginning of puberty, these tumultuous years see a child transform into an adult; unfortunately, the transition rarely progresses painlessly. As a parent, it is important to help struggling middle school girls through this difficult time.

Puberty is a Natural Part of Growing Up

There is hardly an adult in the world who is proud of who they were during puberty. Years from now, your struggling middle school girls will look back on this time and cringe at how they acted. But, in the meantime, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Take their problems seriously. Not receiving a love note might not seem like a big deal to an adult, but to struggling middle school girls it could feel like the end of the world. It is important to provide your children with a kind ear no matter what.
• Expect the unexpected. Puberty is unpredictable. Your children are now beginning their journey of developing their adult selves and the process takes time. They might seem irrational, but it’s all part of the path to self-discovery.
• Set an example. Even the best of us sometimes have bad days. As a parent, it is important not to lose your temper even when your struggling middle school girls aren’t acting the way you would like.
• Don’t treat this as a “phase” to outwait. These are formative years and your children need you, even if they become less inclined to communicate with you.
• Stay positive and have fun! While a certain amount of tension is virtually unavoidable, it doesn’t mean that these years have to be altogether painful. Although your struggling middle school girls are turning into young adults, they are still your children. By keeping a positive attitude, you encourage them to turn into better people.
• Consider professional help. For those times when positivity alone can’t do it, there’s Asheville Academy. Asheville Academy, a therapeutic boarding school for young girls ages 10-14, can help your daughter find the success she deserves.

For more information about Asheville Academy, please call 800.264.8709.