Just hang on and be prepared for some unsettling times in the next few years. Of all the changes in early adolescence there are four areas that cause the most stress between the young adolescent and his family. These are issues of separation, exploration, communication and limits. Fortunately there are some ways to help your child in these areas. Keeping in mind that adolescence doesn't last forever, parents can help by participating actively in the life of the younger adolescent and paying attention to these four important areas.
Early adolescence is a sort of limbo between childhood and real adolescence.
The preteen and early teen often feels powerless. At a time when they would really like to stretch their wings they are still basically dependent on others for everything. Someone else controls his or her money, transportation, schedule, etc. They want to be separate, decision making individuals, but because of lack of experience and self-esteem they are very easily influenced by what others might think of them. Peers take on tremendous importance at this time.