Preteens
Help your child thrive between ages 11 and 14. Understand their emotions, identity, focus, and social challenges during this key stage of growing up.
Between ages 11 and 14, children face new emotional intensity, identity shifts, and pressure to fit in. Parents may notice mood swings, withdrawal, anxiety, low motivation, or struggles with self-image and friendships. Recognizing these early signs can help you offer support that encourages stability, confidence, and emotional strength.
Many parents start asking questions when they notice:
• their child withdrawing or becoming less open
• mood swings, irritability, or low self-esteem
• struggles with friendships or social disconnection
• strong resistance to school or drop in motivation
• physical symptoms like headaches or stomach pain
• feeling misunderstood or not good enough
These signs may seem subtle, but they’re worth paying attention to.
Professional support for you and your child – through all developmental challenges
Our child development experts—psychologists, educators, and therapists—use age-appropriate approaches like play, observation, or conversation to help children and teens express emotions, build confidence, and develop key skills. They also support you as a parent, helping you understand your child’s needs at every stage.
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