Growing Teens, Growing Concerns

What You Need to Know

Puberty is a span of approximately six years starting at age 8 for girls and 10 for boys. With such a wide band of time, “normal” is difficult to define.  Children will want to know why they are shorter than their friends or heavier than their teammates.  If you have questions, consult your doctor.  Otherwise, reassure your teen that this phase is natural and support him/her with the comforts of a healthy lifestyle.

How You Can Help

Parents hear the chorus repeatedly: healthy eating habits, adequate exercise and a good night’s sleep.  Here are specific ideas to practice what the doctors preach.

• Healthy Eating Habits. Plant a garden with your child.  Start small with herbs in pots.  Basil grows well in most kitchen environments.  Once your child sees the plant develop—much like him or her!—and witnesses you using the leaves, your teen may want to move on to vegetables. 
• Adequate exercise. Many household tasks burn calories and stretch muscles.  Have your child to help you wash walls or paint his or her room a new color.  The reaching and squatting is great for growing arms and legs.
• Good Night’s Sleep. Do not allow computers or televisions in your child’s bedroom.  It’s a battle worth fighting.  Teens will stay in front of a screen until 2 a.m., their brains have trouble settling down into a restful sleep.  Not to mention, they need to be at school a few hours later!

For more information, please see the full article:

www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_Growth_Your_13_18