The once adventurous and carefree kid youhad that loved riding his bike, climbing trees or playing shirtless in thecompound has all of a sudden stopped. He seems calmer and no longer asks abouteverything-he seems to be figuring out life by himself. His body Oduor hasbecome stronger, he prefers to bathe once in a while and his friends havechanged. His voice is slowly deepening, he no longer wants to watch Nickelodeonbut rather fashion and music magazines on BET. Yes, he is probably enteringpuberty.

Entering puberty is a profound andtransformative experience that brings about both physical and emotionalchanges. Puberty often starts between 8 and 14 years depending on factors likegenetics, gender and environment. The most noticeable aspects are the physicaltransformation-height increases rapidly, and the body begins developingsecondary sexual characteristics like breasts in girls and voice deepening inboys. Hair growth in areas such as the armpits and pubic region also starts.

Beyond the physical, puberty can be anemotionally intense time. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly increases inestrogen or testosterone, can lead to mood swings, feelings ofself-consciousness, and heightened sensitivity. For many youths, this period includesnavigating new emotions related to identity, friendships, and attractions toothers. These changes can create excitement as individuals grow into theiradult bodies but may also bring uncertainty and discomfort as they adopt tothese shifts. 

This phase of life also marks the beginningof increased independence, where individuals start exploring who they are andhow they are and how they fit into a larger social community. They start tocompare themselves physically. Some will feel they are gangly or too fat. Theteens then will resort to make changes in their meals. For those that feel sosmall will resort to over eating while those that feel too big will avoid food.Some will even opt to go for muscle building formulars. What ever it is, your lovelychild has entered puberty and they need your full guidance-emotionally andphysically.