"The Talk"
Recently, our school announced that it would be having “the talk” with the kids. “Wait”, I thought, “this is way too early!” As a mom, I’m constantly trying to put the brakes anytime things are seemingly going too fast, but as a doctor, I know that it is time. So as my mom brain and doc brain play battle with each other, here are some tips that can help guide you through this time:
Start early. It's never too early to start talking about puberty with your child. Even if they're not showing any signs of puberty yet, it's important to start the conversation so they're prepared when the changes do start happening. Let’s face it, times are different now. I learned about menstruation and puberty when I started menstruating one day. There was no Google, and I looked up “period” in Encyclopedia Britannica. I had learned from a girl older than me that we would all get our “periods” one day. I was horrified that no one had informed me that this would happen to me. There is absolutely no reason our children need to be scared about this. It’s a confusing time already, why not make it easier for them?
Be open and honest. When you're talking to your child about puberty, be sure to use accurate language and avoid euphemisms. It's also important to be open to their questions and concerns.
Reassure them that puberty is normal. Puberty can be a confusing and sometimes scary time for kids. It's important to reassure them that the changes they're going through are normal and that they're not alone.
Be patient. It may take some time for your child to process everything you're telling them about puberty. Be patient with them and answer any questions they have as best you can.
Emphasize that they can always come to you with questions or concerns. Let your child know that they can always come to you with any questions or concerns they have about puberty. It's important that they feel comfortable talking to you about this topic.
Some lines to start the conversation:
"What do you know about puberty?"
"Have you noticed any changes in your body lately?"
"What are you most curious about puberty?"
"Is there anything you're worried about puberty?"
"I'm here to answer any questions you have about puberty."
I know there will be a ton of questions that I will have to answer calmly and patiently. As a mom, I am constantly yearning for the time when my babies were innocent and depended on me fully. But, this first step to explaining a normal physiologic process will make them more accepting of their bodies, be healthier, and make the process less confusing.
Here are some great resources:
