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Middle School Expert Advice from Judith Lee Ladd

Question: My 13-year-old boy still plays with transformers and watches cartoons. I believe some of his friends think he's strange. Is this normal?

Answer: It is acceptable to be creative and play with these toys at his age. If his behavior brings negative attention, he has a choice: Continue playing with toys, or find a more socially acceptable way to be amused.

Many of my students really enjoyed playing with transformers, Barbie dolls, and other toys associated with a younger age. Playing with such toys at home with younger peers or sibling rather than at school may be more comfortable for your son.

If he's bothered by the negative attention from his peers, he may decide to turn away from these toys and seek other interests. This decision would be normal, too. Help your son continue to be stimulated and curious, while at the same time identifying for him more age-appropriate toys and games that seem similar to the less-popular choices he has made.

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Judith Lee Ladd is a former president of the American School Counselor Association, a national organization of K-12 and post-secondary school counselors.

Please note: This "Expert Advice" area of FamilyEducation.com should be used for general information purposes only. Advice given here is not intended to provide a basis for action in particular circumstances without consideration by a competent professional. Before using this Expert Advice area, please review our General and Medical Disclaimers.

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