Communicating with Your Child About Puberty

Its a horrid time for your child to go through. With all the misleading information out there, rather it be on the internet, a unreliable source, or even on the television, puberty can be a hectic, and not to mention, a confusing time in your child s life. It is up to us parents to be sure they know the correct information, and know exactly what to expect when this time comes around. The question is, how to approach such a delicate subject on your young teen?

Keep in mind that a tween or teen is going to be distant at first when you bring up the subject. Try to keep this in mind, and don't over power the subject. Try bringing up this delicate subject in as casual as you can. Considering that parents are asked to leave during doctor visits, this is a wonderful opportunity to bring up the subject without making the child feel uncomfortable. On the car ride home, ask in a casual fashion; "What did the doctor say about..." This way, there is no immediate eye contact, which takes away the embarrassment of the teenager. This way, they are more likely to open up.

Other few ways you can talk to your child is to let them feel like they are growing up. Sit down and talk to your child about bathing and hygiene. One effective way is to allow your child to schedule their own showers. Make a deal with them by saying something along the lines of; "You can monitor your own showers and I wont say anything, as long as you don't go more than 2 days without a shower." This way the child feels responsible for themselves, without the parent interfering. Another great way, is to allow your daughter or son pick out their own deodorant! It sounds small, but to a child being able to make their own decisions, its a great idea! This way they feel more grown up, and hopefully more able to open up to you. They'll think you view them as an adult, so they'll confide in you more often.

When talking to your child about sexual urges, be sure to talk straight forward about this subject. Try not to beat around the bush with this. Remember the values and morals you place on your child at this age, will effect him later on in life. Be sure to talk to your child about how to deal with these new feelings about sex and let them know they can talk to you about anything. It sounds generic, but they'll remember what you say. Be sure you are completely open to the subject, and they have no reason to feel ashamed or embarrassed.

Be sure to give your daughter a heads up about menstruation before it happens. Make her feel prepared for what is coming, and the true facts about what is going on with her new changing body. Make her feel comfortable with this change, and be sure to give your personal experience if possible about your changes in life. Let her know she isn't alone, and you are going to help her with anything she needs.

Encourage your children to be active and participate in the community. This way they meet new friends, and have people to talk too about their changes. If they have any questions about what is going on with their body, they can be around other peers who are going through the same exact thing. It is important to allow your children to be open with you about these tender subjects. To them, this is completely new, and parents have no idea whats going on. Keep them in the frame of mind that you have been there, and you're going to help every step of the way.

Talk to your child about being healthy and staying active. Don't force them to exercise, but encourage them to go outside and play with friends, instead of the alternative of being on the computer all day and watching television. Talk to them about the importance of eating right, and the facts about health risks of being over weight. Try to add in the importance of vitamins also.

With this crucial time in a child's life, its hard to come across as caring instead of the "they can never understand" parents. Show your child you care, and are there for them through this time of their life. They'll never forget it.

SOURCES:

http://www.ehow.com/how_2254533_talk-kids-puberty.html

http://ezinearticles.com/?Guiding-Your-Autistic-Child-Through-Puberty&id=1381118