Your child is starting to become independent and getting better at making decisions. Your child probably enjoys time with friends. While your child likes you and still listens to you, they may start to show a lack of respect for adults.

Forming healthy eating habits

• Make meals a time to connect.
• Offer fruits and vegetables at meals and snacks.
• Limit fast food. Help your child make healthy food choices when you eat out.
• Limit drinks high in sugar or caffeine.

Parenting your child

• Set realistic rules with clear consequences. And reward good behaviour.
• Have your child do chores.
• Help your child learn how to make and keep friends.
• Show interest in your child's schoolwork.
• Talk about the body changes your child will have.
• Limit screen time.

Keeping your child safe

• Wear your seat belt to show your child that it's important.
• Explain the danger of strangers—both in person and online.
• Have a safety plan for visiting friends' homes.
• Teach your child how to obey traffic lights and signs.
• Do not smoke or allow others to smoke around your child.
• Keep guns away from children. If you have guns, lock them up unloaded. Lock ammunition away from guns.

Getting vaccines

• Make sure your child gets all the recommended vaccines.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.