Teach them to pray, early. Teaching children a simple, heartfelt prayer helps them develop gratitude, mindfulness, and a sense of connection to something greater than themselves. A good prayer for kids is short, easy to remember, and meaningful

Preteens (ages 9-12) go through significant emotional, social, and cognitive shifts as they transition from childhood to adolescence. Emotionally, they begin experiencing more complex feelings but may lack the tools to regulate them, leading to mood swings or heightened sensitivity. Socially, peer approval becomes crucial, and friendships grow deeper, yet drama and self-doubt often spike. Cognitively, they start thinking more abstractly, questioning rules and forming their own opinions, which can clash with authority figures.

Physically, puberty’s onset brings changes that may cause insecurity or curiosity. Independence grows, but they still need guidance and reassurance. Parents and caregivers can support them by listening without judgment, setting clear but flexible boundaries, and providing safe spaces to explore their identity. Recognizing these shifts without dismissing them as “just a phase” helps preteens navigate this turbulent yet transformative stage with confidence.

teach them of pay

Emotions are powerful forces that shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships, and learning to manage them is key to emotional well-being. Instead of suppressing or reacting impulsively, we can practice acknowledging our feelings, understanding their roots, and responding with intention. Techniques like deep breathing, journaling, or talking to a trusted person can help process emotions in a healthy way. By developing emotional awareness and self-regulation, we gain greater control over our reactions, reduce stress, and improve our connections with others. Mastering emotions isn’t about eliminating them but navigating them with wisdom and balance.

Puberty brings significant physical changes for preteens (ages 9-12), which can feel exciting, confusing, or even overwhelming. Growth spurts, hormonal shifts, and developing secondary sex characteristics occur at different paces often leading to self-consciousness or comparisons with peers.

Teaching preteens to make friends involves boosting their confidence and social skills in practical ways. Start by helping them identify shared interests like hobbies or favorite shows as natural conversation starters. Role-play simple icebreakers and active listening techniques (“What do you like about that?”) to ease interactions. Encourage participation in group activities where they can meet like-minded peers, while normalizing that not every attempt will lead to friendship and that’s okay. Emphasize kindness, authenticity, and healthy boundaries, reminding them that quality connections matter more than quantity. With patience and practice, they’ll learn to navigate friendships at their own pace.

Preteens (ages 9-12) begin facing peer pressure as they crave acceptance and social belonging. At this stage, influence from friends can shape choices—from clothing and hobbies to riskier behaviors like rule-breaking or exclusion of others. While peer pressure isn’t always negative (it can encourage positive habits, too), preteens often lack the confidence to say “no” or think critically about group dynamics.

Preteens (ages 9-12) are increasingly active on social media, but their emotional maturity and critical thinking skills are still developing making them vulnerable to unrealistic comparisons, cyberbullying, and impulsive posting. While platforms can foster creativity and connection, they also expose kids to curated highlight reels, peer pressure, and risky trends.

Preteens (ages 9-12) are at the perfect age to learn foundational money skills that set them up for financial confidence later in life. Here’s how to teach them stewardship in a practical, engaging way

Helping preteens develop financial wisdom goes beyond dollars and cents, it’s about nurturing mindful, values-driven decision-making. Here’s how to cultivate money-smart kids