Mature Methods to Discuss Puberty with Your Child

The changes children undergo during puberty usually lead to confusion.Fortunately, they have you, and you can offer your child support in various ways.This creates a necessity to discuss puberty with your child in a way that will be helpful for the mental well-being of the child.Children frequently get exposed to inappropriate content from television, media outlets, mobile devices, and other children.Puberty is an important part of your child's life, and it's important your child gets the best source to learn about puberty.In the older generations, there was a belief in having one discussion to explain puberty.Consider puberty as a series of changes, each requiring its conversation.Keeping the conversation with your child is a great way to discuss puberty with your child.Children during puberty will likely seek you out to discuss their bodily changes.Try to resist vague metaphors and lies.An important method to discuss puberty with your child is the use of honesty and openness.Find out ways to discuss puberty with your child below:

Start the Discussion Early

It is understandable if you prefer to wait until your child's experiencing puberty before discussing it.Puberty is a pivotal moment in every child; thus, it is essential parents get discussions on it right.This is why a better approach is to start discussions on puberty early.One of the reasons to discuss puberty with your child early is because you are better equipped to inform your child than other sources.We live in a more digital era.Also, puberty can begin earlier for different people.Don't be surprised to find out your child already has some idea of puberty.In this case, try to estimate the scope of what your child believes, then offer your explanation on puberty.Take advantage of the opportunity to talk to your child if they ask you any puberty-related questions.A child is better able to navigate puberty when the child is already informed about puberty.This is why it is essential your child is familiar with puberty before the puberty process begins.A good time to start puberty discussions is at age 8 for a boy or a girl.

Keep the Conversation Open

Puberty is a series of gradual changes in the body of a child.The process of puberty can last for over six years.The mature method to discuss puberty with your child is to keep the conversation about puberty open.Try to avoid seeing the talk about puberty as one singular occurrence.Remember that occur spans different changes at different points.This is why you might want to consider mature conversations at any time.For instance, a child can have acne at age 8 and pubic hair at age 9.Both are puberty signs that involve different conversations. Thus, puberty is not a one-time discussion with your child.Puberty can also be too much information to discuss within one conversation.Follow-up questions might arise at any point.You can adjust the information you provide according to the child's age.

Be Honest and Open

It is normal to feel nervous or awkward discussing puberty with your child.After all, lots of parents shy away from discussing puberty.Try to find the courage to discuss puberty openly.Your child might also be nervous and confused, so it is important to stay composed.Remember, puberty is a very natural process for humans.If you are still nervous, focusing on explaining the changes that will occur in your body might help you.The use of a calm and supportive tone will be helpful to your child.Endeavor to explain to your child that puberty has nothing to be ashamed of.You want to consider using the child's age to manage the details you share.Lies and misconceptions about puberty might confuse your child further in the future.Try to void shying away from the necessary details of puberty.It is vital to discuss puberty with your child with honesty and openness.

Prepare Ahead

Before you approach the topic of puberty in your child, take time out to prepare for the conversation.Consider going out to the library or bookstore to get books on the changes that occur in puberty.Preparing ahead is a crucial method to discuss puberty with your child.Your child might have questions about discussing puberty, so prepare ahead how to answer common puberty questions.Encourage any questions from your child.Prepare to share some of your personal experiences.Bring any material or tool you might need to use.Your child might need practical tips.For instance, you might bring a tool to help with shaving.You may wish to share some other books or resources with your child about puberty.Sometimes, children are not comfortable asking all the questions from their parents.By sharing additional resources, you are giving your child reputable sources.

Ensure Privacy

It is not necessary to make a big deal out of talking about puberty with your child.You can causally approach the subject with your child.However, ensuring your child's privacy when you want to discuss puberty with your child can be necessary.Your child might need a lot of privacy to be able to communicate with you about puberty.Try to find alone time with your child before approaching the topic. This could be in a car ride from school.Trust is an essential part of communication.When your child tells you about bodily changes during puberty, try to ensure you respect your child's privacy.Maintaining your child's privacy will build trust between you and your child.When a child doesn't feel there is privacy with a parent, the child will likely hold back during discussions about puberty.Thus, it is essential to have discussions in confidence with your child.

Conclusion

Puberty is often a confusing and challenging time for most children.Support for your child is vital for the mental well-being of any child.You can ensure you discuss puberty with your child by starting the discussion early, keeping the conversation open, being open and honest, preparing ahead, and ensuring privacy.

Resources

https://www.wikihow.mom/Talk-About-Puberty-with-Your-Kids

https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/talk-about-puberty.html

https://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/guiding-your-son-through-puberty/

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Parenting-children-through-puberty