How parenting pre-teens compares to other child stages : Identifying opportunities to enhance adolescent mental health and wellbeing

Background
Early adolescence is a key stage for parents and children before increasing child independence, yet little research has explored parents' experiences during this time.

Methods
Secondary analysis using a broadly representative survey of 2600 parents explored challenges and opportunities for parents of 10–12 year-olds relative to other child ages.

Results
Parents of pre-teens are mostly confident in their parenting, satisfied with children's sleep and they were more confident in knowing where to seek professional help than parents of younger and older children. Nevertheless, there were several challenges, including the use of positive discipline and partner support. Parents of adolescents reported less favourable experiences in several areas, including concerns about children's use of electronic devices, confidence and help-seeking.

Conclusions
Findings highlight the importance of pre-adolescence as an opportune time to support parents prior to major developmental transitions associated with adolescence.