Explaining transition to teens without faltering
The process and phase of evident physical changes in the body when a child grows to adolescence is called puberty. The brain sends out hormonal signals to the rest of body as the reproductive system readies itself. The human body is run by various hormones. Every action, feeling, physical appearance, mental makeup depends on hormones. In adolescence, hormonal signals may come across as conflicting because the rapid chemical changes of a growing body may send supposedly opposing signals to the brain.
How can you explain all this to your kid without stammering, blushing or faltering repeatedly? Here is a list of topics that can be explained scientifically. They cover most teenage concerns. Use the list to talk clearly but reassuringly to your kid. Be more of a mentor than a parent, it will work out better.
Appearances will change: Appearance is important for everyone. Explain the growth process to young teens with a quick note on how pituitary glands work to introduce body and facial hair, and change body parts. Your kid is supposed to take these changes in their stride.
Menstruation and bodily change: Menstruation is a natural process. Your little girl is entering a new life. Help them celebrate their entry to womanhood rather than treating it as something scary, painful or troublesome. Also give a clear scientific explanation of the whole process.
Peer pressure and self-esteem: Clarify that your teen does not need to go out of their way to ‘belong’ or appear ‘cool’ perforce. Copying an influential peer will damage their self-esteem for life. Tell them to be themselves, and the oddest of people have a place in society, so long as they are comfortable with themselves.
Teenage infatuations can happen: First love rarely ends in marriage. Create an environment of trust to allow your teen to confide in you. Tell them infatuation is normal, but they should not sacrifice their grades for it, nor do anything dangerous. The infatuation is the most important thing to them for the time being. But it may not last forever, and that would not be the end of the world.
Identity crisis and depression: Your child is no longer a child, but not an adult yet. Adolescence is the time when identity crisis and depression can be severe. Don’t allow your teen to become isolated. Nor do they need to go out of their way to put up a fake bubbly persona. Talk to them about their preferences, opinions and future plans as an adult to another adult. It will help them identify who they are, and who they want to be.