Is puberty starting earlier?
6. It seems to be. The average age is 12 to 14 in girls and 13 to 15 in boys, but girls of nine, or younger are now starting their periods. When you and your partner started puberty will be a good indicator of when your child will start theirs.
7. Talk to your daughter about periods. It can be terrifying for a young girl to start her periods if she's unprepared, so do explain it to her well in advance. Girls of nine, or younger can start their periods. When your daughter will start hers will depend upon her development. Is she big for her age? Has she started to develop breasts? When you started your periods can be a good indication too.
8. They may be scared of change. The physical and emotional changes of puberty can be quite frightening for your child, so explain what's happening to them and tell them they're not alone and that many of their mates will be experiencing the same feelings and changes. They may start to get pubic hair and have growth spurts too, which can make them feel awkward. They can start to sweat more, so personal hygiene can become an issue. Your son's voice will start deepening before it breaks and your daughter will be starting to develop breasts and may start her periods too. This can be alarming for a young pre-teen, so reassure them.
9. What about their emotions? Be prepared for big mood swings and very strong feelings. Your child may be embarrassed easily and be worried about their appearance. They may feel very self-conscious about the way their body is changing so don't make fun of their spots or moustache, but reassure them that their feelings are normal. They can often become argumentative at this age too and may challenge your views. Respect their feelings, listen to them and give them a free rein when you can.
10. What about sexual feelings? Feeling sexually aroused is all part of growing up and it's important to tell them that this is natural. Your boy may start to get erections that he's embarrassed about and your daughter may be aware of feelings she hasn't had before. Give them the privacy they need now.
- 'My kids' hormones kicked in earlier than expected'
- Are kids growing up too fast?
- 'I used Corrie to help with sex education' - read one mum's story of how she coped with the change
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