Learning about puberty can start in early childhood, with information reinforced and expanded on in the years leading up to puberty.
PUBERTY
For most young people, puberty begins between the ages of 9 and 16. The hormone gonadotrophin is released from the pituitary gland at the base of the brain and hormones are released from the ovaries in girls and the testicles in boys. This causes the female’s ova (eggs) to mature and be released, and the male to produce sperm. Puberty is considered complete when a person is physically capable of reproduction.
When should I start discussing puberty?
Learning about puberty can start in early childhood, with information reinforced and expanded on in the years leading up to puberty. Puberty is just one part of understanding about growth and development. Be brief, factual and positive when answering a child’s questions about puberty. By sharing just a small amount of information in a positive way, you are sending the message that this is a normal event and one that you are happy talking about.
Important points to discuss (for more information, www.fpq.com.au)
- Periods
- Breast development – girls and boys
- Wet dreams
- Unwanted erections
- Voice changes
How to encourage healthy attitudes and behaviours
- Be open with the child from an early age and provide lots of information.
- Share your own experiences, particularly those that were positive.
- If they are an early or late developer encourage them to accept that the way they are experiencing puberty is right for them.
- Remind the young person that they should never feel pressured into doing anything they are not ready for.
- Provide accurate information about contraception and safe sex practices.
