Adolescence is a dynamic, fun, and stressful period where kids transition from childhood to adulthood. During this period, there are many physical, mental, and emotional changes occurring. It usually starts with puberty, around ages 10 to 12, and ends around ages 18 to 19. Some experts believe adolescence can last until age 21.
Adolescence is broken into three stages: early, middle, and late adolescence. While these stages are common for all teens, each person experiences them in their own way.
Early Adolescence (Ages 10-13)
Early adolescence is the time when kids start to notice big changes in their bodies. Puberty kicks in, with girls developing breasts and boys seeing their testicles grow. Growth spurts happen around ages 11 for girls and 13 for boys, and girls usually get their first period around age 12.
Socially, kids start to pull away from their families and form stronger bonds with their friends. They might also start testing boundaries and pushing back against authority. You may notice more mood and behavior swings.
At this stage, kids are more focused on themselves, which can lead to body image issues and comparing themselves to others. Thinking can also be more black-and-white, meaning they may struggle to see the gray areas or complexities of a situation.
Parenting Tips:
Your child may feel more anxious or curious about their body and identity during this stage. This may include sexual curiosity. Be available to answer questions or schedule a doctor’s appointment for reassurance.
Help kids learn organizational skills, time management skills, and how to make safe choices while allowing them to demonstrate more responsibility.
Set and enforce boundaries to keep your budding teen safe. Explain to them why the rules exist and follow through on consequences that you determined beforehand.
Many eating disorders develop during the adolescent years. Teaching positive relationship with food, body and movement goes a long way.
Teens might express extreme thoughts, such as “I’m never going to pass this test.” Validate their feelings but encourage them to consider the bigger picture and remind them of past successes.
The transition from elementary to middle school can go well; it also may unmask previously undiagnosed issues like learning disorders or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
When to Consult Your Doctor
Increased times of stress can reveal difficulties with mood or attention issues. If you notice social withdrawal, declining academic performance, decreased concentration, or other concerning signs, seek help from your pediatrician.
Eating habits can change quickly in teens for many reasons. If you notice significant changes in your child’s eating patterns, their weight changes significantly, or they lose their menstrual period, this is something to bring to your doctors’ attention.
While some teens may experiment with drugs and alcohol, the majority are not using these substances. Adolescent brains are especially sensitive to substance use, and early use is associated with increased risk for later problems. Vaping is sometimes seen as less harmful than cigarettes, but studies show that this is a risky behavior leading to harmful effects on the brain and lungs, for example. Seek help from a medical professional if you have concerns regarding your child and substance use.
Transition into early adolescence can be jarring for both teen and parents alike. Remember to model self-care for your child by meeting your own physical, emotional and social needs. Remain a steady and present participant in your child’s life through this fun yet challenging phase.
Maria Ash works as a Physician in the department of PAA Adolescent Medicine - NSS here at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
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