easiest way to talk to 12 year old about body changes?

Answer 1

There are a few good books that deal with puberty in terms that children will understand, such as 'Whats happening to me?' by Peter Mayle. I think if you read about it with your child then this gives opportunity to ask questions

Answer 2

I would buy a book a simple one about body changes, there are several around...and also bring it up quickly with them. depends if it's a girl or boy really and whether they get sex ed. at school or not. A lot of pre-teens will know a fair bit anyway so try not to assume that they are completely ignorent about it all. Start by making sure that communication is easy and that the 12 year old feels comfortable sharing stuff with you. Go straight to the point and say "You're nearly a teenager now, pretty cool huh!, you'll start to feel more indipendent and I'm sure you know some things already but you might notice some things about your body changing as well and I want to make sure that you feel comfortable about sharing any concerns or issues that you might have. If it's a girl and she hasnt had her period yet, explain if she doesnt know already what it is, and that you have a supply of pads or tampons in whatever cupboard or draw for when it happens. Talk about it as if it is something to look forward to rather than sound like it's something to be scared of. for both males and females you should also explain that hygeine is really important so its important that they have a shower once a day and that if they arent already using it, that next time they go shopping they can choose some deoderant, and explain that once you hit puberty your sweat can smell really bad unless you use deoderant.

keep the book in a private but accessable place so that the 12 year old can look at it whenever they like.

Answer 3

American girl has a great book for girls on that subject. You can buy it at Bath and body works. They sell American girl products. Reading it first will help you out with that. If you don't have one near you it can be ordered at American Girl on line. My daughter really liked it and now all of her friends have read it. It is called "The care and keeping of you"