Welcome to tween girls and if you have landed here in the hope of helpful advice regarding your tweens rather worrying transformation then you have come to the right place. Firstly, don’t panic, this is normal, and we are going to give you plenty of tips to help you and your little tween get past this trying stage. We are with you, so listen up!
Welcome to tween girls and if you have landed here in the hope of helpful advice regarding your tweens rather worrying transformation then you have come to the right place. Firstly, don’t panic, this is normal, and we are going to give you plenty of tips to help you and your little tween get past this trying stage. We are with you, so listen up!
Tweens are experiencing puberty from the ages of 10 onwards (or even earlier) and it may seem unfathomable that your little girl could be right there. However, it is normal like many more before her, she will be fine, but you do need to have the chats especially if you notice some of these physical changes including;
- Growth spurts to the point that new clothes are a must!
- Body shape changes such as more body fat accumulating around her hips and thighs thus giving her a curvier, more rounded figure.
- Breast development and the need for your daughter to begin wearing training bras.
- Sweating more and hair growth on her legs or underarm area as well as in the pubic area.
- Skin changes including breakouts or the odd spots here and there.
- Menstruation may not begin for a while yet but if your daughter has some of these physical changes already, it may be on its way, so you need to ensure she understands periods.
As well as the physical changes your tween may change in mood or act out of character which is perfectly normal. Here are some other changes in your tween daughter:
- Moodiness, sadness, anger and times of disregard for others are all common signs of puberty.
- Anxiety, stress and emotional disruption are all common too, but they can be upsetting for parents and indeed, young ladies.
The general rule is to keep talking to your daughter about puberty and to prepare them for what is ahead once they are 8 or 9 years old, however, it is hard to speak openly about such subjects. Some young girls are excited about the changes to their body and they are comfortable to talk about it whereas others will suffer with bashfulness causing them to refuse to discuss the matter. There are a good number of books on the market that are ideal for young ladies to read about puberty. They offer information without too much parental interference and this option may suit your daughter more. Either way, they need to know and if you can help them and read the book together this would be the ideal solution.
If you are struggling as a parent to help your child through puberty, take a minute and relax. Here are a few tips in getting through it:
- Answer questions if your daughter asks but don’t try to overwhelm them either. Let your daughter lead the way so they aren’t too embarrassed.
- While the sex conversation is a difficult one - whether your daughter wants to discuss it or not, she needs to know you are happy to talk about it when she is ready. It may take time, but she will need you.
- Try and pay attention to your daughters physical and emotional changes as when you are busy it is easy to forget. Take time to listen to them and watch for growth spurts and the need for a bra. You need to notice to help your daughter at the beginning anyway.
Remember that things will get easier and your tween will adapt to their new shape and life. Give them space when they need it and accept their moods may be erratic but that it isn’t their fault. Give them time and things will be ok.
Written by Emma Hayes staff writer at FFHQ who also blogs at www.emmamadjotters.com.
