Puberty is the process that every child go through on their journey to adulthood. It is also known as a very complicated period of time for both the child and parents. The process can be very stressful for your child, both physically and emotionally.
Puberty is very different for boys and girls. The signs are obviously different and they also go through it at a different time. Here are the stages of puberty that every child will need to go through to develop into an adult.
Puberty for girls
The average age for girls to begin with puberty is 11 years old but it is different for everyone so don’t worry when your child’s puberty reaches earlier or later than the others.
First stage (approximately between ages 8 – 14)
- Development of their breasts
- Pubic hair start growing
- Some girls may notice more hair on their arms and legs
Second stage (approximately between ages 10 – 16)
- Breasts will continue growing and become fuller
- Most girls will also start having their first period
- Pubic hair will become coarser and curlier
- Hair will also start growing on their underarms and they’ll start sweating more
- Have acne of all forms like whiteheads, blackheads and pustules
- Have vaginal discharge and increase in height and weight
Third stage (approximately between ages 12 – 19)
- Breasts become adult-like
- Pubic hair has spread to the inner thighs
- Genitals are most likely fully developed
- Most girls will stop growing taller
Puberty for boys
The average age for boys to reach puberty is 12 years old. Boys usually go through the process a little later than girls do.
First stage (approximately between ages 9 – 15)
- Testicles grow bigger
- Scrotum starts to thin and redden
- Pubic hair begins appearing at the base of the penis
Second stage (approximately ages between ages 11 – 17)
- Penis and testicles grow and scrotum gradually becomes darker
- Pubic hair becomes thicker and curlier
- Hair starts growing on underarms and they begin sweating more
- Breasts may swell a little temporarily
- May have “wet dreams” (involuntary ejaculations of semen while sleeping)
- Voice “breaks” and grow deep permanently
- Have acne of all types like whiteheads, blackheads and pustules
- Becomes taller and gets more muscular
Third stage (approximately between ages 14 – 18)
- Genitals become adult-like
- Pubic hair has spread to the inner thighs
- Facial hair starts growing and boys may begin shaving
- Grows taller at a slow rate and growing may stop at around 16 years old
- Most boys reach full adult maturity by 18 years old
Mood changes during puberty
Though the signs of puberty vary for boys and girls, the one thing they share in common is the time when they feel self-conscious. It’s completely normal to feel this way, I’m sure we’ve all been through this phase at some point in our lives.
Puberty can be difficult as children as coping with the changes that their bodies are going through. Most of them will have acne and body odour, which is what leads to self-consciousness. It can also be exciting as they begin developing new emotions and feelings.
However, the “emotional rollercoaster” can leave children with emotional and psychological effects like mood swings, aggression, low self-esteem and depression. Hence, it is very important that parents listen and talk to children about the process.
Always be open about the topic and encourage them to ask you questions about it, your child will feel better knowing that you’re there for them.
When to call the doctor
It is extremely important to consult a doctor if you find your child showing signs of puberty too early (before 8 years old) or not showing any signs of puberty (after 14 years old) to make sure that your child is in good health.
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