Thirteen-year-olds are gaining an understanding of what it means to act responsibly. They are:

● working to comprehend the rules and apply them in numerous settings. 

● growing their independence. 

● increasingly taking care of their bodies (getting exercise, eating right). 

● learning about healthy relationships (managing their impulses and feelings, empathizing and working through conflict, keeping promises, and being dependable). 

● balancing school requirements (managing homework and extracurriculars), 

● and contributing to their household (doing chores, cooperating with expectations and rules).