Why learn about all bodies?
Puberty happens to everyone, but not in exactly the same way. Learning about every kind of body helps you understand your friends, siblings and cousins, and stops teasing.
Puberty usually begins between about 8 and 13 for girls and between about 9 and 14 for boys, and it continues over several years.
Changes that happen to most people
A growth spurt, when you get taller quickly. Your hands and feet often grow first, which can make you feel a bit clumsy for a while.
More sweat and a stronger body smell. Oilier skin and hair, and sometimes pimples.
New hair under the arms, around the private parts, and often on the arms and legs.
Stronger feelings, more interest in privacy and in what friends think.
Changes in girls' bodies
Usually the first sign is breast buds, small tender bumps under the nipples. One side may grow before the other, which is common.
Hips widen and the body gets curvier. A clear or white fluid called discharge may appear in underwear, which is a normal way the vagina keeps itself clean.
Periods usually start about two years after breasts begin to develop.
Changes in boys' bodies
Usually the first sign is that the testicles get bigger, then the penis grows. Shoulders broaden and muscles get stronger.
The voice gets deeper and may crack for a while. Facial hair starts to grow, often first above the upper lip.
Erections happen more often, and some boys have wet dreams. Some boys also get a little swelling or tenderness under the nipples, which usually goes away on its own.
Your timing is your timing
Some people start early, some start late. Starting earlier or later does not make anyone better, more grown up or less healthy.
If you notice signs before about age 8 for girls or 9 for boys, or no signs by about 13 for girls or 14 for boys, a doctor can check that everything is on track.