Precocious puberty is more likely to occur in girls, or in those who are African-American or Hispanic. [3] X Research source Other risk factors include obesity, exposure to radiation therapy or external hormones (e. g. coming into contact with an adult’s estrogen or testosterone gels), or another medical condition (such as thyroid problems or McCune-Albright Syndrome). [4] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source [5] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
If it occurs at a young age, early puberty can cause children to stop growing before their peers. This can result in reduced adult height. [7] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Some children get very thin or wispy pubic or underarm hair early on. [9] X Research source It’s not necessarily a sign of precocious puberty on its own, but you should discuss it with your pediatrician, especially if the hair thickens.
Some children develop body odor early on, but then don’t show other signs of puberty until the typical age. [11] X Research source Talk to your pediatrician if you’re concerned.
You may notice vaginal discharge in their underwear when you do the laundry, even if they haven’t started their period yet. This should also be viewed as a sign of puberty.
Their Adam’s apple may become more visible as their voice deepens.
Irritability and mood swings can also be signs of mental health conditions like depression or bipolar disorder, so take care to distinguish puberty mood swings from a childhood mental health condition.
Increased questions about sex More frequent masturbation Dressing in an age-inappropriate way Looking at pornographic material Engaging in sexual acts with other people
Trouble taking compliments or criticism; seeming “too sensitive” Frequent self-criticism or negative self-talk (e. g. “I’m so stupid! I can’t do this!”) Being easily influenced by negative behavior Being extremely controlling and demanding Avoiding friends or activities they used to participate in Placing blame on others
Withdrawing from family and peers Getting poor grades Sleeping too much or too little Refusing to eat, developing odd eating rituals, or eating too much Dramatic changes in behavior (e. g. a quiet child suddenly becoming aggressive) Use of substances, like alcohol or drugs Self-injury, suicidal ideation, or suicidal intent
Try to see things through your child’s perspective. What does your child need from you right now? Your child isn’t ready for the responsibilities, independence, or even activities that a preteen is. [29] X Trustworthy Source American Psychological Association Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists Go to source [30] X Research source Encourage activities and responsibilities based on what’s best for a child their age, not how old they look.
“It’s normal to need to wear deodorant. You just need it a little earlier than your friends, and that’s okay. " “Lots of people need to wear bras. Your body is changing, and everyone else’s will, too. " “You had a wet dream. Lots of people have those. It’s okay. " “You’re not ’losing your mind’. You’re just feeling emotional, and that’s normal. You can talk to me whenever you need to. " Consider buying books on puberty that they can look through.
Listen to them when they want to talk or have questions. Buy them clothes that they feel comfortable in. Encourage your child to stick with activities they enjoy. (If they suddenly want to quit something, try to figure out why - for instance, a child who wants to quit sports might be body-conscious, which can be worked around. ) Help them script responses to questions about their body (e. g. responding to “Why are you so tall?” with “I just grew faster”). Consider telling your child about your own experiences with puberty. Compliment your child’s appearance if they say something negative about how they look. (However, don’t constantly point out their changes. ) Foster positive self-esteem by praising what they can do, and not focusing on how they look. Consider therapy if your child is struggling.
