Your Child’s Development: Ages 12-14

During the middle school years, your child will grow more quickly than at any other time since infancy. In the early adolescent years, children often want to “fit in” with their friends, whose opinions become more important.

As a parent, you may feel as though your increasingly independent children need you less, however research shows your role is still very important. Children this age need, as much now as ever, your support, guidance and unconditional love.

As in earlier years, children’s development at this stage follows predictable steps, but there is not an exact timetable. Children will develop as adolescents in their own unique time and in their own way. Below are a few examples of the traits commonly seen in children this age.

If you are concerned about your child’s learning or behavior, talk with your child’s teachers, the guidance counselor, the school principal or the district special education coordinator

What Children Do: Ages 12-14

• Think about possibilities and plan ahead;
• Discuss complex issues, like “Who am I?” and “What is important in life?”;
• Spend more time with friends;
• Rely on parents for rules and guidance; and
• Grow! Boys and girls can add six or more inches to their height.

For More Information, click on the links below.

• Understanding Teens
• Virginia Cooperative Extension, Resources for Parenting and Families
• National Institute of Mental Health, Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Last Modified: 2/19/2019 4:53:09 PM