Middle School - Ages 11-13

The transition from childhood to the teen years can be both exciting and unsettling for parents and children. As preteens go through changes in their bodies, thinking, emotions, and relationships with others, parents face changing roles and a growing list of questions and concerns.

Behavior and Discipline

• One Tough Job – Being a positive parent can be tough!
• Positive Discipline  – Learn how to negotiate the challenges of parenting.

 Child Care

• Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services: Learn more about quality child care.
• Virginia Child Care Resource and Referral Network: Talk to a professional about your child care needs.
• Virginia Department of Social Services: Find child care providers in your area.

Developmental Stages

• Family Doctor – What to expect when your child goes through puberty
• Ages and Stages: 9 to 11 Year Olds - Quick reference guide for your child's milestones
• Child Development Institute - When your children need you now more than ever

Education and Learning

• Great Schools – Involved parents equals successful kids.
• One Tough Job – Find out how to get involved in your child’s education.
• Child Development Institute - Learn how to help your child succeed in school

Health, Nutrition and Safety

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• Consumer Product Safety Commission – Up-to-date information on recalls and products your family uses.
• Healthy Children – Answers to many health questions that new parents have.
• Kids Health – What you need to know about raising a healthy family.
• Stay Strong - This Richmond based website provides information and resources about eating disorders

Mental Health and Substance Abuse

• Autism Speaks – Learn more about autism resources for your family.
• SAFE, Inc. – Chesterfield County working together to prevent substance abuse
• The Partnership at DrugFree.org – Support, tools and tips from experts and parents.
• Get Smart About Drugs - A resource for parents, educators and caregivers

Parenting

• AARP: GrandFamilies Guide: Learn more about the basics of grandparents raising grandchildren
• Support for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren - Learn more about the basics of financial planning
• One Tough Job - Find information especially for dads.
• Child Development Institute - The challenges and rewards of single parenting