Q&A for How to Help Prepare a Preteen Girl for Puberty

Puberty can occur in girls anywhere from ages 8-16, but the most common ages are 11-12.

There is no age that you "should" be as long as you are over the age of consent (which in most places is 16-18). You should only have sex if you and your partner are physically and emotionally ready for it and you are both of legal age. If you don't want to have sex and your partner does, don't let them pressure you. And if the situation is reversed, don't pressure your partner.

Yes. Some girls start puberty earlier, and some start later. Puberty can begin anywhere from age 8-16 for girls.

Yes. It is not uncommon for girls to start developing breasts as young as 8.

Everyone's body is different. Some girls can have periods at 9, and others at 16. It's all okay. Don't compare yourself to others you see because your body is different. You will usually start puberty at the same age as your mother.

A period doesn't hurt, other than when you have menstrual cramps. Not everybody gets these, and plenty of girls just get very mild cramps. Honestly, it's not that bad. Having your period is kind of annoying, but you get used to it. If you still feel scared, talk to an adult in your life about this stuff, like a parent, a friend's parent, a teacher, counselor, etc. They can answer all your questions and reassure you when you're nervous.

Just come out and ask her if she is okay with talking about it with you. If she isn't, then don't force her to talk about it.

The way you tell your mum about this, is send her a note or tell her "Mum I have started growing hair down there, and on my underarms". She'll get the idea and give you the talk.

This is a sign of puberty. Ask your mum for a bra with more support so they don't bounce. If you're wearing a training bra, get a sports bra, then get a wired one if you need it.

Yes, you will get breast buds a while after you get hair, so you don't have to worry. Everyone develops at different paces. so all your signs of puberty won't come at the same time or as close together.

You can always try with a training bra first if your nipples are starting to show though your shirt.

Carry panty liners along with an extra change of underwear/pants when you go out. Knowing that you are prepared should your period come when you are out should help you get over the nerves.

Yes, it is perfectly normal. Twelve is still fairly young, it is completely normal that you haven't gotten your period yet. The body hair, however, does signal that you are getting into puberty and may get your period soon. As for being called skinny, try not to worry, but if you want to double-check, you can use a BMI calculator to see if your weight is within the healthy range.

Some people develop faster than others. This is completely normal; you may feel embarrassed for having such signs of puberty at an early age, but there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Everyone develops differently; some develop as early as this, while others develop much later.

There is no normal age. You can start shaving whenever you want to, you feel ready, and your parents say it's okay, or you don't have to shave your legs ever if you don't want to. It's totally up to you.

If you're feeling nervous, talk to your mom, aunt, older sister, or other trusted female in your life. If there is anything you need, just ask them. They will understand because they went through this too.

Every girl is different! Nobody has the exact same body as anybody else (not even twins). Genetics play a huge role in puberty, so talk to your mom about when she started. (Though it will probably not be exactly the same for you, it will be similar.)