The “terrible twos” are nothing compared to the double-digit discord of a child's early adolescence. Of course we hear everyone talk about how difficult it can be to raise a teenager, but I think parents don't mention those "tween" years because they are so traumatized by the conflict that it is just too early to talk about it. Yes, I am. shedding light on the tendency to associate ideas of conflict with older adolescents, but research shows that the traditional teenage years are not when you will have most of your conflicts with them (Parent). While it is true that there are different stages in a child's growth during which conflict is likely to arise, it seems unfair to not prepare parents for those early adolescent years, when you have the opportunity to really set the tone and set boundaries. where the research stands: conflict levels are highest in early adolescence, between ages 10 and 12 (parent). I raised a son. I now have a 9-year-old son and an 11-year-old daughter to guide into adulthood and responsible independence. This stage we are entering is already proving difficult at times and it is comforting to know that the conflicts I have already experienced are not necessarily due to previous "mistakes" on my part or exclusively because of a particular temperament on my part. my daughter. always exposed. The biggest challenge I have with my daughter is instilling a sense of empathy toward others. While both of my sons seem to have been born with an inherent sense of awareness and concern for others, this was not the case for my daughter. Turns out it might be my boys who are the exception, not my daughter. An organization based in Toronto, Canada, is currently working with schools to help children understand how to show empathy...... middle of paper ...... knowing they are not Just normal, they are also an opportunity to teach my children how to practice conflict resolution. I will take the challenge and turn it into an opportunity. Works Cited Allison, Barbara N. and Jerelyn B. Schultz. “PARENT-ADOLESCENT CONFLICT INEARLY ADOLESCENCE.” Adolescence 39.153 (2004): 101. MasterFILE Premier. EBSCO. Internet. April 16, 2011. Horton-Parker, Radha J. “Teaching Children to Care: Engendering Prosocial Behavior Through Humanistic Parenting.” » Journal of Humanistic Education and Development 37.2 (1998): 66. MasterFILE Premier. EBSCO. Internet. May 1, 2011.TREACY, Sean. “Empathy can make the difference between a bully and a good child.” PostStar.com - News from the Glens Falls, Saratoga, Lake George NY area. Lee Enterprises, April 3, 2011. Web. April 16, 2011. http://poststar.com/news/local/article_557cbd44-5e37-11e0-8e3f-001cc4c03286.html.