Navigating Puberty: A Guide for Parents and Children

Promoting Honest Discussions and a Healthy Body Image in Adolescence

Puberty can be intimidating for both parents and children, but there’s no reason to fear it. Parents play an important role providing education and encouraging independence. Discussing puberty with your child should be an ongoing conversation not one long, sit-down lecture. Goals with this dialog is to start early and discuss the topic often with a slow progression to help normalize puberty and also ease your child into these changes. Make the conversations age appropriate, gradual, natural lessons, so they’re less likely to be embarrassed or avoid talking about the subjects.

A great first discussion is the topic of body odor and personal hygiene. You might notice that your child is starting to require a deodorant. This presents the perfect opportunity to initiate a conversation and introduce them to a natural deodorant. Some of my preferred natural brands include Salt & Stone, Ahava, Native, and Kopari Beauty. As puberty progresses and body odor becomes more pronounced, sometimes deodorant alone is not sufficient. In such cases, a Benzoyl Peroxide wash with at least 10% strength can be used to cleanse their underarms and eliminate any lingering odor.

Another great topic for discussion is the emotional side of puberty and the challenges it may pose for your child. This can be a confusing time for your kiddo, so it’s important to communicate that emotional fluctuations are a natural part of growing up.Equipping them with healthy coping mechanisms to handle stress and its associated challenges is essential. This may involve activities such as journaling, exercising, or seeking support from a friend or family member.

Your teenager’s body is going to be changing and each individual does this at a different pace – there is no “right way” or “right time”. Reassure your children their time for puberty will happen when its supposed to for their body. For boys, their body will start to change typically from ages 9 to 14. Girls will notice body changes at age 8 to 13, but it does not mean anything is wrong if your child don’t start puberty until later. Body positivity is crucial during this time period and starts with you leading by example. 

Here are a few brief reminders:

• Food is to fuel our bodies and is not bad or evil
• Health and weight are not the same  thing
• Shift the benefits of physical activity from body shape to feeling better
• Self-compassion and positive affirmations are key
• It’s not ok to discuss others’ bodies (positive or negative) 

It’s always a great idea to provide your child with a book that is suitable for their age, explaining body changes and what to expect. This will empower them to educate themselves in a healthy manner while allowing for privacy. After these discussions, always encourage questions and offer thoughtful answers based on their curiosity.

Ready to support your child through their journey of growth and change? We can provide personalized guidance and resources for navigating puberty with confidence and care. Let’s work together to ensure your child’s well-being.  Saving Grace Pediatrics offers both in-home and virtual visits to patients  in Oklahoma and Kansas.

A Parent’s Guide to Managing Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (H-F-M) is a common contagious illness that is caused by a group of viruses known as enteroviruses. Typically, it affects infants and children under age 5, but older children and adults can also be affected. If you suspect that your child may have Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease, here are some tips to help manage and provide relief for the uncomfortable symptoms.

Tip 1: Hydration is Key

Children with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease are at risk for dehydration due to the discomfort caused by the sores in their mouth and throat, which may make it difficult for them to drink enough fluids. It is crucial for parents to monitor their child’s fluid intake closely, especially while they are sick with H-F-M. One effective way to gauge their hydration levels is by keeping track of their diaper changes or urinations. A rule of thumb to monitor for adequate hydration is having at least three wet diapers or urinations within a 24-hour period. If you notice a decrease in their urine output or if they are drinking less than usual, it is important to contact Saving Grace Pediatrics promptly to schedule an appointment for your child. Dehydration can be a serious complication of H-F-M, and early intervention is crucial to ensure the well-being of your child.

Tip 2:  Don’t Pick or Pop

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a viral infection that causes painful sores and blisters to develop around the child’s mouth, as well as on their hands and feet, and sometimes in other parts of their body. It is important to avoid picking, poking, or popping the sores, and to ensure that your child does not scratch them, as doing so could lead to infection. 

Tip 3:  Choose the Correct Footwear

Socks and closed-toe shoes are the preferred choice for children with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (H-F-M), as they discourage them from picking at their sores and provide a protective barrier for their skin. This helps prevent the spread of the virus and reduces the risk of secondary infections. Additionally, the coverage offered by socks and closed-toe shoes can help keep the affected areas clean and free from potential irritants, promoting faster healing and comfort for your child.

Tip 4: Contagious Period

One common question we receive about H-F-M is, “How long is it contagious?” Once the sores have formed scabs and no new sores are appearing, the child is no longer considered contagious. Additionally, if your child has a fever, they must be fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease can be a challenging experience for both parents and children, but with proper care and attention, the discomfort can be managed effectively. If your child has H-F-M and you have any questions or concerns, Saving Grace Pediatrics is here for you! We offer both virtual and in-home visits in select cities in Oklahoma and Kansas.