How do I prepare my child for puberty and body changes?

The short answer

Begin before the first change needs an immediate response. Find out what your child already knows, which words they use for their body and how they prefer to receive information. Explain one concrete change at a time: what may happen, why it happens, which new task it creates, what is private and who can help. Use accurate names for body parts and processes, while respecting the young person's words for themselves, their gender and their body. A written sequence, labelled supplies, pictures, a reliable video or repeated short conversations may be easier than one large talk. Practise practical tasks such as using deodorant, dealing with an erection, changing clothes, managing discharge or preparing a period kit before they are urgent. Build privacy and consent into the teaching: ask before discussing their body with others, knock, and let them choose who helps where possible. Puberty timing varies. Ask a GP if development appears unusually early or delayed, or if pain, bleeding, skin changes or another symptom is affecting daily life.

• Give information before the corresponding body change or care task becomes urgent.
• Explain what may happen without predicting the exact order, timing or experience.
• Match the format and amount of information to the young person, then repeat and update it.
• Teach privacy without shame and involve the young person in decisions about help.
• Ask a clinician about unusual timing, pain or symptoms that affect daily life.