Editor’s Note: Phyllis L. Fagell, a licensed clinical professional counselor and professional school counselor, is the author of “Middle School Matters.” Her new book is “Middle School Superpowers: Raising Resilient Tweens in Turbulent Times.”CNN —After a disappointing routine during a gymnastics meet, Addy Moser was full of self-doubt, so the 13-year-old tried silently encouraging herself using her own first name. It’s not easy for middle schoolers to counteract unrealistic expectations they absorb from peers, family members, the culture and themselves, which is why I devote a chapter in my new book, “Middle School Superpowers: Raising Resilient Tweens in Turbulent Times,” to acquiring “super security,” the power to develop a healthy self-identity. The good news is you can help your child acquire super security. Beyond offering unconditional love, which every child needs to feel secure, parents can do practical things to shore up a tween’s self-image. Parents can encourage children who use social media to be mindful about the posts they see and share.

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