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Introduction
Puberty can last between 18 months and 6 years. During this time, things can change very quickly. Puberty usually starts between the ages of 8 and 14. Boys often begin around 12 years old, and girls around 11 years old. Some start earlier or later—and that’s completely normal.
FACT: Growth spurts are short periods when children grow taller. During a growth spurt, girls grow about 11 cm per year, while boys grow around 13 cm a year.
Growing Up
Becoming taller and stronger is important. This was especially important in history when people needed to hunt and gather. But it's not just the body that changes—so does the brain. Puberty helps a child's brain change into an adult’s brain, giving people the skills to make decisions and plan for the future.
FACT: Brains continue to develop as people get older. Many adult brains are still developing between the ages of 20 and 30!
Reproduction
Many adults in romantic relationships choose to start families. When this happens, the baby grows inside the mother for about nine months. This is called being pregnant. Puberty prepares the body for this, especially through changes to the reproductive organs.
Hormones
What Are Hormones?
During puberty, the body starts producing special chemicals called hormones that help it grow and change. In boys, the testicles begin to make a hormone called testosterone, which helps with things like muscle growth, a deeper voice, and the development of facial hair.
In girls, the ovaries start to make hormones called estrogen and progesterone, which help with the development of breasts and the start of periods. These hormones are controlled by a small part of the brain called the pituitary gland, which acts like a boss, sending messages to different parts of the body to start puberty.
FACT: Just a small rise in certain hormones can trigger a growth spurt, change your voice, or start your period. Hormones might be small, but they’re super powerful messengers that help shape who you become during puberty.
When Puberty Begins
Puberty usually begins between the ages of 8 and 14 and is a time when a person’s body starts to change from a child’s body into an adult’s body. Everyone starts puberty at a different time, and that’s completely normal. These changes happen because of special chemicals in the body called hormones. During puberty, people may grow taller, develop body hair, and notice changes in their emotions and the way they think. It’s all part of growing up and becoming who you are meant to be.
Emotions
Hormones don’t just change your body — they can also affect your emotions. During puberty, your body produces more hormones, and this can sometimes make you feel happy one minute and upset the next. These mood swings are normal and happen because your brain is still getting used to the new hormone levels. You might feel more emotional, sensitive, or even confused at times. The good news is that as your body adjusts, these emotional ups and downs usually become easier to manage.