At some stage during the tween or teen years, your daughter will begin to experience the various stages of puberty. It’s important that you know what to look for in order to put your mind at ease and in order to be able to help your tween through the huge physical and emotional changes she will be experiencing.

We have outlined below some of the more common signs of puberty in girls. You should bear in mind that these stages can appear gradually, and it may take three to four years for your child to cycle through all the stages associated with puberty. Boys will generally go through puberty at some point between the ages of 9 and 14.

Girls may start between the ages of 8 and 12. It’s important that you sit down and explain these signs to your tween daughter, so she knows what to expect. Also, be sure that you explain how she might handle her first period if you’re not around to help, such as when she’s at school or away from home.

The signs to look for include:

  • Physical Changes

  • Growth Spurts

  • Body shape changes as body fat accumulating around the hips, and thighs, giving girls a curvier shape.

  • Breast development

  • Body odour and skin breakouts due to increased oil gland production

  • Hair growth in the underarm area, on the legs and in the pubic area

  • Menstruation begins, typically around the age of 12.

  • Emotional Changes

  • Mood swings may begin, peppered with bouts of anger, sadness, and other emotional fluctuations.

  • Romantic feelings and interest in the opposite sex.

  • Anxiety and/ or excitement about the changes she is going through. 

  • Concerns over increased responsibility and fitting in socially

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