Pronunciation: [twˈiːnz] (IPA) 
The term "tweens" refers to pre-adolescent children who are between the ages of nine and twelve. The word is often misspelled as "twins" or "tweens" due to its similarity in pronunciation. However, the correct spelling is "tweens," which is transcribed in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /twiːnz/. The phonetic transcription helps to show the correct pronunciation and spelling of the word to avoid any confusion in its usage.
Tweens, short for "between," is a term commonly used to refer to children who are in the transitional stage between childhood and adolescence. While there is no universally accepted age range for tweens, they are typically between the ages of 9 and 12. This age group is characterized by the fact that they are no longer children but not quite teenagers yet.
Tweens experience significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes as they start to develop their own identities and navigate the world around them. They often exhibit characteristics of both children and teenagers, displaying a combination of childlike innocence and curiosity alongside emerging maturity and a growing desire for independence.
During the tween years, children begin to form their own opinions, preferences, and interests. They start to distance themselves from their parents and seek greater peer acceptance and friendship. This is a time when they become more aware of their appearance and may develop a heightened interest in fashion, music, and popular culture.
Tweens also face new challenges such as hormonal changes, peer pressure, and the transition from elementary to middle school. They are often characterized by their desire for autonomy, while still needing guidance and support from parents and other adults.
Understanding the unique needs and characteristics of tweens is important for parents, educators, and professionals who work with this age group. It involves providing them with appropriate guidance, resources, and opportunities to foster their personal growth, independence, and self-esteem, while also maintaining a nurturing and supportive environment.
The word "tweens" is a shortened form of "between". It was coined in the early 20th century to refer to children who were "in between" the ages of childhood and adolescence. Initially, the term "tween" was mainly used to describe children between the ages of 10 and 12. However, over time, it has come to encompass a broader age range, typically referring to pre-teens and early teenagers. The term gained popularity in the 1990s and has since become a commonly used label for this age group.
