What physical changes occur during adolescence?
Your child’s body changes quickly during puberty. Puberty is a period in adolescence where the body develops and matures sexually. This period usually starts at 7 to 13 years of age in girls, and 9 to 14 years of age in boys. Hormones (special chemicals in the body), family history, and nutrition all add to your child’s growth. • Body make-up: • Boys: Bones and muscles grow, and strength increases. Fat is lost in some parts of the body, such as the arms and legs. Broad shoulders may develop. Body odor becomes adult-like and acne (pimples) may appear. Their voice deepens and hair begins to grow on the face, pubic area, underarms, and other parts of the body. • Girls: Girls store more fats than boys. Their body develops with wider hips and smaller waistlines. Their body odor and voice change. Pubic and underarm hair starts to appear and grow. They may also get acne. • Sexual growth: • Boys: Hair over the pubic area increases in amount, and becomes darker, thicker, and curlier. At 11 to 1
