Puberty can be an embarrassing and confusing time for children. Their changing bodies and some of the events that accompany puberty can make the situation uncomfortable for everyone involved. Taking a straightforward, honest and matter-of-fact approach to puberty, helping them to understand what is happening to their bodies and keeping yourself open for questions make up the ideal way to help children through puberty. Let them know that they can come to you with questions or concerns.
Step 1
Give your child the basic information about puberty to let him know what he can expect with his changing body. If you're uncomfortable with the subject, try purchasing a book that describes the changes and what is considered normal. Give your child the knowledge to understand what is happening and that he's not alone.
Step 2
Offer personal stories about your own experience with puberty. A mother telling her daughter about the first time she started her period or a change in breast size can help bond you to your child, helping her to know that you understand what she is going through. You can even make the experience humorous so that your child isn't scared or worried when it happens to her.
Step 3
Answer any questions in a straightforward manner. Acting like you're embarrassed or uncomfortable with the changes in your child's body will ultimately make him feel uncomfortable as well, and less likely to come and ask you when he has questions. Show there is nothing to be ashamed of by being direct, open and honest.
Step 4
Affirm that what your child is going through is normal and that you love her, suggests the American Academy of Family Physicians. Puberty can be a time of low self-esteem for some children as they watch their bodies change. You can help your child feel better about herself by bolstering her confidence, telling her she's beautiful and smart every day.
Step 5
Urge your child to stay active through puberty, notes the University of Michigan. Some teens gain weight or lose interest in sports and social activities when it is crucial that they remain active to exercise their bodies, minds and confidence levels. See that your child stays active, spends time with friends and plays sports whenever possible.
