Helping your male child from preteen to puberty
Parenting a boy is a journey filled with challenges and rewards, and one of the most significant phases is guiding him through the preteen and puberty years. Understanding the physical and emotional changes your child will undergo during this period is the first step in fostering a supportive and healthy environment.
Here are a few ways to help you navigate this transformative time.
Talk – and talk some more
Effective communication is the cornerstone of navigating puberty with your child. Create a safe space for open conversations where your child feels comfortable discussing their thoughts and concerns. Encourage questions and listen without judgement. Take care to validate their feelings and experiences. Children often want to know when they will begin experiencing the physical and hormonal changes associated with puberty. It's essential to reassure them that the timing varies from person to person.
Give them a heads-up on body changes
As your child enters puberty, they will go through various physical changes. Give them accurate and age-appropriate information about these transformations, including growth spurts and the development of facial hair. Voice deepening is a noticeable change for boys during puberty. Explain that the vocal cords are growing due to increased testosterone levels – this will help demystify the process. The more knowledge you can share, the more comfortable your child will feel about the looming changes.
Expect mood swings
Puberty brings not only physical but also emotional changes. Hormonal fluctuations can impact your child’s mood and behaviour. Encourage your child to express their emotions and provide coping mechanisms such as journaling, art or sports activities as healthy outlets. Acknowledge that these emotional shifts are normal, helping your child develop emotional intelligence.
Talk about body image concerns
Body image concerns often arise during puberty, as children become more aware of their physical appearance. Encourage a healthy body image by promoting self-acceptance, and emphasise the importance of overall wellbeing rather than conforming to societal ideals. Reiterate that everyone experiences growth at their own pace.
Discuss personal hygiene
Introduce your child to proper personal hygiene practices as part of their self-care routine. Teach them about the importance of regular showers, skincare and dental care. Addressing these topics with sensitivity can boost your child's self-esteem and foster a positive self-image.
Encourage friendships
Social dynamics can shift during puberty as children navigate friendships and relationships. Encourage healthy peer connections by promoting kindness, empathy and effective communication. Discuss the importance of respecting boundaries and recognising the value of true friendships.
Good to know
Helping your child through the preteen to male puberty transition calls for a delicate balance of openness, education and support. Focus on good communication and try not to ignore your child’s concerns and worries.
Remember that each child is unique, and tailoring your approach to their individual needs will strengthen your bond and empower them to embrace puberty with confidence.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.