Behind the Scenes in Girls

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  Stage One puberty generally lasts between the ages of 8 and 11 in girls. According to Healthline.com, this stage marks the beginning of hormone production, triggered by the hypothalamus (the part of the brain responsible for stimulating the pituitary gland). These hormonal changes last for about a year before their results are outwardly visible. During this stage, the female ovaries also begin to enlarge.
  
  

Behind the Scenes in Boys

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  In boys, Stage One puberty generally lasts between ages 9 and 12. Male hormones become a lot more active, although sexual activity has not yet occurred. In addition, boys often experience a significant growth spurt in height. According to the Child Growth Foundation, males may grow an average of 2 to 3 inches per year.
  
  

Tips for Parents

• The process of puberty is a new and unusual experience for both girls and boys. However, the awkwardness of the experience can be alleviated with casual child-parent discussions about the physical changes that occur during puberty. In addition, parents may find that offering their child reading resources about the changes of puberty may initiate further open conversation about other aspects of sexuality.
  
  

Considerations

• When boys and girls begin puberty, the maturing body usually requires greater hygienic attention. As hormones become more active, the body produces more sweat and body odor. Daily bathing or showering should be coupled with the use of deodorants, antiperspirants and mild odor-eliminating powders. Girls and boys should also be more mindful to the cleanliness of their genital and anal areas, which should be washed thoroughly each day with mild soap and water.
  
  

Problems

• Occasionally, girls and boys may experience delayed or early puberty. According to Healthline.com, this may indicate hormonal inconsistencies in the brain. Several tests are available to determine where the problem may lie, including blood tests, X-rays, CT scans or MRIs. In addition, the delayed or early onset of puberty can magnify the feelings of physical and emotional stress already associated with puberty.