Tiffani Thiessen Shares Honest Insights on Navigating the Challenges of Middle School Parenting

Tiffani Thiessen Opens Up About Her Biggest Parenting Challenge Middle School Has Been Really Hard

Tiffani Thiessen Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic/Getty Images

Tiffani Thiessen is opening up about the biggest challenge she faces as a parent to her two children.

Middle school has been a tough time, not just for my daughter, but I remember how difficult it was for me too," Thiessen, 50, shared exclusively with We on Thursday, May 9. She was discussing her collaboration with Welly to launch the "Happy Campers" kit, a special collection of essentials designed to support kids during sleepaway camp and reassure parents.

She continued, "I think the past few years have been tough, especially in middle school. It's just a strange and emotional time."

Thiessen, who has a daughter Harper, 13, and a son Holt, 8, with her husband Brady Smith, shared that Harper had to adjust to a new school for junior high and make new friends, which was not easy.

Thiessen shared that it wasn't difficult for her, but rather challenging to see her daughter trying to figure out certain things. She feels fortunate to have a daughter who values communication, leading to their open and supportive relationship. Thiessen acknowledges that their strong communication has been beneficial for both of them.

Despite not experiencing many parenting challenges, Thiessen did encounter some criticism from her daughter, Harper, after she watched Saved by the Bell for the first time.

Harper decided to binge-watch the entire Saved by the Bell series at the beginning of the pandemic. It was amusing to walk in the room occasionally and catch an episode,” she told Us. After finishing the series, I asked her, 'So, how did you like it?' and she responded, 'Mom, TV shows nowadays are much better.'

Thiessen has experienced some challenges recently, but she has also achieved some significant successes in parenting.

"My daughter just left for sleep away camp at her school," she said. "When Harper left, Holt wanted one more hug and said, 'Sissy, I wish I could go with you.' These little moments are the ones that mean the most to me."

Thiessen mentioned that even though her daughters have a five-year age gap, witnessing these heartfelt interactions between them makes her feel like she and her husband are doing a good job at parenting.

Thiessen expressed her joy by saying, "We’re doing something right like the fact that they truly do love each other so much. That’s a win that I really appreciate."

Feeling more prepared for Harper and Holt heading off to summer camp this year, Thiessen partnered with Welly to create the “Happy Campers Kit.”

"This year will be the first time that both of my kids are going to sleepaway camp. My daughter has been attending for several years and is very experienced," she shared with Us. "On the other hand, my son is more sensitive and deals with some anxiety. That's why we decided to create a special 'Happy Campers Kit' to provide support for both of them."

Editor's P/S:

Tiffani Thiessen's candid account of the challenges and triumphs of parenting resonates with many parents navigating the turbulent waters of middle school and beyond. Her experience highlights the importance of open communication and support in fostering a healthy parent-child relationship. The article underscores the complexities of adolescence, where children grapple with emotional turmoil, social pressures, and the search for identity. Thiessen's willingness to share her own experiences, both as a parent and a former teen, provides a relatable and reassuring perspective.

Thiessen's collaboration with Welly to create the "Happy Campers Kit" further demonstrates her commitment to supporting children during challenging transitions. By equipping kids with essentials designed to promote comfort, confidence, and a sense of community, the kit acknowledges the unique needs of young campers and provides parents with peace of mind. The article serves as a valuable resource for parents seeking guidance and encouragement as they navigate the evolving journey of raising children.