Book recommendation; What's Happening to Me? A Guide to Puberty by Peter Mayle and It's Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, and Sexual Health by Robie Harris
Puberty
Puberty usually happens between the ages of 8-16. Not everyone goes through it at the same time though as we’re all different.
Puberty means that young people's bodies will grow faster than at any other time in their life. The brain releases hormones that tell the body it’s time to change. There is lots of useful guidance to support you and your young person through this period in their young life.
Young people see and hear a lot about sex and relationships on TV and online. By the time they near puberty, they may be familiar with some advanced ideas. But talking about puberty is still an important job for parents because not all this other information is reliable.
Talking about puberty
Talking about puberty isn't a one-time conversation. Talk to your child about the changes their bodies will go through as they grow. Some girls start puberty at 8 years old, and some boys do by 9. So you may need to start these talks earlier than you think. Discuss the physical and emotional changes that come with puberty before they begin.
Useful websites
Childline has a range of useful guidance on puberty including:
- When puberty starts
- Spots and acne are common
- Your body shape changes
- You might get mood swings
- You might get crushes
- Masturbation is natural
- Most people grow pubic and body hair
The NHS Livewell website has a useful leaflet about what teenagers can expect when growing up and dealing with puberty. NHS website also has a range of information on early or delayed puberty.
Don't wait for your kids to come to you with questions about their changing bodies. They might not, especially if they don't know that it's OK to ask you about this sensitive topic.
Related Topics
- Body Image
- Skin and Acne