It’s not at all uncommon for preteens to have the same stress and confidence issues as those who are much older. When it comes to sources of stress right now, pick any, from climate change, covid, and loss of friends and activities due to quarantines, to even deaths of family members and friends. Amongst all, though, are the same old problems that preteens face…which doesn’t make them less stressful either. What are some of the common sources of self-esteem issues among preteens?
Social Anxiety
Social Anxiety is greater this year than ever before. Children and teenagers got accustomed to being alone during pandemic lockdowns, and as things open up, all the anxiety returns of looking and acting properly. Unfortunately, as this stress comes roaring back, they’ve also become unaccustomed to it! This can create increased social anxiety in your preteen, and can cause them to feel extra amounts of overwhelmed as they attempt to become used to school strictures and peer pressure again.
Braces
Braces, glasses, and other visible differences are always stressful for teens and preteens. Offering them the best options possible to not alter their appearance too much or too starkly will help. Invisalign offers many benefits over traditional braces. Just as you enjoy glasses frames which set off your face in a beautiful way, allow them to have glasses which accentuate their features! There are many options online.
Keeping Up With the Latest Gadgets
While having things like a cell phone or gaming system isn’t a bad thing, it can be a complex thing for a parent to teach their child that they don’t need every new item on the market. Finding a balance where they wear clothing which helps them feel confident in their bodies, while also not being outside of the family budget is important. Preteens might seem like they don’t want any rules or guidelines, but they actually crave some structure and guidance. Pouring toys, games, and other items on your child that they might want, even if you can afford it, will not serve them well in the long run.
Your preteens are at a fragile time, during the most chaos this country has seen since the last world war. This doesn’t mean they won’t be able to grow into amazing adults. In fact, the courage they show and confidence they build during such times help them become amazing adults. Have confidence in your kid, and increase theirs!
Check out this article on what you can do to instill confidence in your teen daughter!
