Puberty

Kids grow up fast, especially if they're experiencing premature puberty. An endocrinologist and a psychologist offer advice and much-needed perspective.

What's considered "normal" in terms of sequence of changes and age range for puberty?

DOC Puberty is marked by changes in the body. For boys, pubic hair isn't necessarily an indication that they're starting—there are other, clearer signs, like penis or testicular enlargement, which can begin as early as age 10. For girls, changes include the formation of breast tissue; pubic and underarm hair; body odor; and, finally, menarche (the first period). Their bodies change initially by developing breast buds, at an average age of 9 for African-American girls and 10 for white girls. From a parent's point of view, the thing to be concerned about is if the breasts of girls ages 6 to 8 seem to be growing rapidly over a period of four to six months, accompanied by an increased rate of overall growth—particularly height. If they're rapidly outgrowing their clothes, in other words, early puberty might be an issue. Bear in mind that parents' own growth patterns are also a factor: If the mother had her first period at 9 or 10, there's a good chance that her daughter will be an early maturer, too.

Young girls whose parents divorce are more likely to reach puberty earlier, according to a recently released study designed to determine the relationship between divorce and troubled youngsters. Read More »

Ah, summer! At long last, here in the north and west of the USA, summer is upon us! And this means much completely obvious (and therefore, useless) parenting advice in mags and on the net about safety. Like when the American Academy of Pediatrics warns us to exercise extra caution when visiting large bodies of water. And I say, wow, really? Who knew the ocean could be dangerous!? Dumb summer-related advice aside, I'm thrilled that the season has at last made it here. 'Cuz to me summer is a time to GET NAKED!