Understanding stages of puberty in boys can put you at an advantage when your son reaches puberty. It's good to be on the lookout for signs of puberty so you can prepare your son for what is happening to him.
People like to feel that they understand their bodies, and you wouldn't want your son to be afraid that something was wrong with him or that he was alone. Instead, talk to your son about the changes in his body that are happening with the onset of puberty. He should know that body hair, facial hair and body odor are natural, and he should learn about the way his body will respond to his emotions. Here are some of the key stages of puberty to be aware of, so you can discuss them with your son frankly, calmly and confidently:
Hormonal Changes
The brain in pubescent boys starts to release a hormone called gonadotropin, which signals the pituitary gland to release signaling hormones that tell the testes to manufacture testosterone. Testosterone is responsible for most physical development in boys and the manufacture of sperm. It also causes some mood swings, which adolescents should know are normal reactions to the surging hormone levels in their bodies during this time.
Physical Changes
Hair will begin to grow sparsely in the genital and armpit regions, and, shortly afterward, on the face. Along with this hair growth, boys may notice a higher rate of sweat production in the armpit and genital areas, with an odor. Glands in the skin and hair will produce oils, making it common to have pimples or acne breakouts. It is important to emphasize proper hygiene and skin care. Shoulders will broaden, and overall muscular development will increase in boys during the teenage years. Boys will also begin to notice penis and testicular growth, frequent erections and possible seminal emissions during sleep. It's important to talk with your son about these changes so he doesn't feel alarmed or ashamed when they start to happen.
Your son may also wonder how to handle the possible embarrassment of having a sudden erection in public. Having a father or a male authority figure address this matter will help your son feel confident talking to you about sexuality and other issues. However, parents should always take the lead when setting expectations and boundaries regarding intimate behavior.
 | With teenage puberty, and preteen development, questions arise that parents should know how to answer in advance. Being prepared when your child reaches puberty can make your child's transition from childhood to adulthood a little easier. |
 | Stages of puberty in girls tend to begin around age 11 or 12, and parents should establish open lines of communication to help girls understand the changes in their bodies and the emotions that accompany puberty. |
Learn the common signs of puberty for both boys and girls. Girls generally begin puberty before boys and research indicates that they are entering puberty earlier than previous generations. |
Breast development during puberty tends to begin around age 10 and continues until age 18. There could be some variation in these ages because every girl is different, but she will go through five stages of development. |
"What are signs of a girl's first period?" is a question that makes some parents nervous. It's good to be prepared with the facts so you can help your daughter prepare to take care of herself during the menstrual cycle. |
