Explaining puberty to kids: Common questions that should be answered

Puberty is not an easy phase in a child’s life. Many times it is seen that children are unable to cope with the physical and emotional changes that happen during this time. While at one time they undergo hormonal changes which alters their mentality, at the same time the massive physical changes they see seems to be beyond their understanding.

 

What worsens every child’s transition from a kid to an adult is the lack of communication between the child and the parents. Moms and Dads often hesitate to talk about this. Discussions on sex, puberty, intimacy never happens in households. Individuals are expected to learn them through instincts!

Contrary to this practice of remaining silent to the body and mental changes of a child during puberty, here are few common questions that every parent should answer to their kids:

Why does my breast seem different?

In girls, the beginning of puberty is associated with the growth of breasts. While some girls are unaware of the changes and notice it later, few girls get embarrassed with the changes.

If your daughter asks you about the breasts, do not shy away from addressing her query. Do not hesitate to speak about it.

Help your child understand the changes and why she should not feel bad about her breasts. Talk to her about the beauty that a woman’s body is and why it should be cherished always.

Why do I have hair growth over my body?

Puberty marks the growth of hair all over the body. The hair growth gets thicker and stubborn in many children immediately after puberty.

Since this seems weird to many kids, the growth of pubic hair can generate several questions in their mind.

Parents should teach their kids about their hair growth, the growth of hair in genitals and also why it is important to keep them clean and neat.

Why am I bleeding?

Your daughter may get startled with the bleeding. Menstruation is a difficult part in a woman’s life though it is the basis of a female body.

Explain your daughter about the bleeding process, tell her why it happens and motivate her not to feel bad about it. You can give her a tip or two on how to deal with period cramps and also encourage her to speak about it, instead of getting ashamed.

Why does my penis feel large?

Boys usually do not open up to their parents with their issues. But as parents you should be observant about their behaviour and bodily changes during the puberty age.

Make yourself available to your son’s questions. Create an easy and comfortable ambience around you so that your son does not have to remain unaware of the bodily facts. Talk to him about the male reproductive system and what it comprises.

Also, give your child a pep talk on safety and hygiene.

Bottom line

Pre-puberty to puberty phase is a very delicate time period in an individual’s life. Do not leave your child in darkness. Address all the queries your child brings to your notice.

Remain observant. Keep an eye on their mannerism; if something is bothering them make them understand it. Give them support and encourage them.

Do not shy away from talking to your child about reproductive parts. The child has to learn about it from somewhere; let it begin from the home.

Do not impose restrictions on children, once they hit puberty. Very often it’s seen that limitations are put on girls after they mature. Instead, help them during their growth period. Nothing worse can happen out of puberty if one’s parents are supportive during that time.