It's My Life . Parents/Teachers . Puberty . Printable Discussion Questions

IML Quick Discussion Guide: Puberty

Prior to using this Quick Discussion Guide, you and your child may want to do any or all of the following activities on "It's My Life":

Read the "Puberty" article.
Work together to come up with a "You Said It" submission for this topic.
Print out the IML Journal page "Puberty” and/or the "Puberty" Crossword Puzzle. Complete them together or encourage your child to complete them on his/her own.

Discussion Questions:

Have you talked about puberty in school? Do you know what it is? What have you heard from other kids?
Do you have any questions you’ve been feeling embarrassed to ask me?
Would you rather talk to a doctor or counselor about this subject?

Questions for Parents of Boys:

You’re at the age when you’re probably thinking about sex. Do you have any questions you want to ask?
Do you have any questions about your private parts? Are you worried about what is “normal” for guys?

Questions for Parents of Girls:

I know a lot of kids your age start wearing bras. How do you want to handle this? We could go shopping, or look online together.
What do you know about getting your period? Would you want to use tampons or pads? Are you worried about cramps?

Remember:
--You don’t have to be asked about puberty by your child to start a conversation. Try to use opportune moments to show you’re open to discussion, such as in the car or when encountering an advertisement for tampons, deodorants, shaving products, or bras. Consider ice breakers such as “I remember when I first got my period,” or “Did you know your grandfather taught me how to shave?” When giving information, be as calm and as factual as possible.

--During puberty, kids are often particularly sensitive or self-conscious, so you may have to approach them in a sensitive, non-judgmental way. Don’t take their questions or problems lightly, and don’t assume that they will appreciate a little teasing or humor. What may seem like harmless joking to you may be very upsetting for your child.

--Discussions of puberty and/or sexuality often involve morality and faith, and your own beliefs will impact how you approach “the talk.” But whatever your beliefs, try to remember that tweens and teens will go through puberty whether you want them to or not, and the journey is far easier if they know exactly what is happening to them, and why. Try to be absolutely honest and truthful when you answer puberty questions, and let your kids know that the changes of puberty are just part of being a human.