Boys Hit Puberty Early

Boys may be hitting puberty earlier than ever, but what does that mean for boys these days.

For the last couple of decades we've know that girls are maturing faster than their mothers and grandmothers. Part of the reason was better nutrition, but others say environmental factors and exposure to more estrogen like substances are behind this.

But now it looks like boys are joining this same trend. Until recently the normal age for boys starting puberty was 13 with the biggest changes happening between 13 and 16. A new study found that boys are now starting to have body changes starting at age 12. The biggest leap takes place, on the average, nowadays from 12 to 15 years old. And for most boys, they are fully mature, body wise by the time they turn 19.

With early puberty, come a few issues that families need to consider. Having the “birds and bees” talk is never comfortable for any parent, but now having it early on is the goal, especially since boys and girls are maturing sooner than ever. Also, the teen years and all associated issues are going to happen at a younger age, so make sure you keep that in mind, especially as your son or daughter starts acting like a teenager but is still only 11 or 12.