Kids grow up fast. And it seems like they grow up a little faster once they hit a certain age: puberty. Everybody goes through it. But it can still be hard to talk about these body changes.
We’re sharing what you and your children need to know about the changes happening to their bodies at this age.
What happens during puberty?
During adolescence, kids’ bodies start to change and new hormones surge. This can be a scary or confusing experience. While most parents are already familiar with some of the telltale signs of puberty—new hair growth, body odor, lower voices, breast growth and menstruation—it can be hard for adults to remember everything kids go through in adolescence.
Early signs of puberty
Body odor
The first thing parents might notice when their child starts puberty is body odor. Help your child pick out a deodorant or anti-perspirant that they like. You may also need to help them get in the habit of showering daily and after sports.
Hair growth
In both boys and girls, puberty will bring on new hair growth. During their late adolescent- or early-teenage-years, kids will notice that they are starting to grow pubic hair and underarm hair. This generally happens earlier in girls than in boys, but every child develops at their own rate.
Acne
Acne is also common during puberty. Puberty hormones cause the glands in the skin to produce extra sebum, a natural oil that can clog pores. Washing gently with water and mild soap can help reduce breakouts. If this doesn’t work, over-the-counter and prescription medications might help. Your pediatrician can recommend a dermatologist if the basic skin care or over-the-counter medications do not work.
How is puberty different for girls?
For girls, puberty usually starts between ages 8 and 13. Typically, the first sign of puberty is breast development, but it can also be the growth of pubic hair.
After these first signs of puberty, girls will often go through a growth spurt. But unlike boys, girls grow more than just upward. Girls will start to gain weight, especially around their breasts, hips and thighs, which is all part of typical development.