So Money with Farnoosh Torabi · Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Guest Bridget Cormoris, a therapist and mom of seven, emphasizes that during the middle school years (ages roughly 10-13), parents should prioritize their presence and emotional availability over material possessions. She notes that while kids are pulling away, they still need strong relationships with their parents to navigate challenges like friendships, bullying, and identity formation.
“These are the years when our kids start pulling away, but they still desperately need us. They're navigating friendships, bullying, identity, social media, first phones, expensive wants, and all kinds of emotions they don't yet have the words to explain.”
“And as parents, we're trying to figure out how to show up for them without pushing them away.”
“So I think parents really are having to navigate this the best they can.”