Preteen and teen health
The preteen and teen years (ages 11 to 17) can bring a lot of physical and emotional change for your child. That’s why regular well child visits are just as important now as they were in your child’s early years. Let’s learn more about your child’s unique needs during adolescence and how you can continue to support their health and well-being.
Understanding adolescent development
Adolescence is a time of transition into adulthood. It includes rapid development in the brain and body.1 This is typically when kids go through puberty, which brings on many physical changes. These include things like breast development and beginning menstruation for girls, and a deepening voice and growth in sex organs for boys. Both girls and boys typically experience a growth spurt and may deal with skin conditions like acne.2
There are also big developmental changes happening in the brain. And while your child’s ability for complex thinking increases significantly, these brain changes don’t all happen at the same time. This is why you may notice mood swings, increased risk-taking and lapses in judgment.1 Rest assured, this is all a normal part of adolescent development.
Supporting preteen and teen health and wellness
Because so much change happens during this time of life, your child may feel many emotions. They may feel excited about having more independence and stressed about new challenges. Communicate openly and offer a safe space for them to share their feelings. Here are other ways you can help support your child’s physical and emotional health and wellness.
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