A tween is a child who's between being a little kid and a teenager, usually between ages 8 and 12. The word blends “between” and “teen” to capture this in-between stage where you're not quite a teenager yet but you're definitely not a little kid anymore.

Tweens often start caring more about what friends think, develop stronger interests in music or hobbies, and want more independence from their parents. A tween might still enjoy playing with toys but also want their own phone. They might roll their eyes at “baby stuff” while still secretly enjoying some of it.

Libraries often have tween sections with books that aren't quite for young children but aren't full teen stories either. Summer camps might offer special tween programs designed for kids who've outgrown activities for younger children.

Being a tween means figuring out who you are while your body, brain, and friendships are all changing. It's a time when you're developing your own opinions, testing new skills, and starting to see the world in more complex ways.