Foundations of Navigating Tween Friendships

Tween friendships involve dynamics that often feel intense and bewildering to parents. Sound practice rests on understanding the typical dynamics and the principles of supportive guidance. This foundational course provides that base. By the end of this course you will be able to describe the typical dynamics of tween friendships, recognize the role of peer pressure and cliques, identify the principles of supportive guidance, and understand when professional support may help. What you will learn: - The typical dynamics of tween friendships including shifting groups - The role of peer pressure and the difference from negative peer influence - The role of cliques, in-groups, and out-groups - The role of social drama and how it serves social learning - The principles of supportive guidance including listening before advising - The role of family in providing stable connection alongside changing friendships - The signs that suggest professional support may help including social isolation or mental health concerns The course uses readings, developmental summaries, case examples, and reflection prompts. Each module ends with applied exercises. This course is written for parents of tweens. By the end you will have replaced anxious uncertainty with a structured understanding.