For parents and caregivers
Puberty and the body
What happens during puberty?.
Puberty is the period when the body gradually develops from a child's body into an adult's body. Your child may need explanations, practical support and more privacy.
Understanding the situation
Hormones are chemical messengers that trigger these changes. Your child may grow faster, develop more body hair, sweat more and have spots. Breasts, genitals and voices develop in different ways.
Physical development and emotional maturity do not always follow the same timetable. A child who looks older still needs care, clear boundaries and help understanding their own experiences.
Turning knowledge into action
What you can do
- Explain upcoming changes in everyday language before your child experiences them.
- Make deodorant, clean clothes and period products, if needed, readily available.
- Knock before entering and ask before commenting on your child's body.
Find a way to start
One way to begin
“Bodies can begin to change in several ways. Have you noticed anything or is there something you are wondering about?”
Use your own words and give your child time to respond. A short conversation can be a good beginning.
More help with the conversationFurther support
When should you seek help?
Speak to a school nurse or GP if you are concerned about development, pain or changes your child finds difficult to manage.
See who you can contactContinue learning
Other useful topics
Sources and further reading
Sources were checked on 1 October 2026. The conversation examples are suggestions from Tidlignok.
- Norsk barnelegeforening: Normal pubertet (Norwegian)
- Ung.no: Jenter og puberteten (Norwegian)
- Ung.no: Gutter og puberteten (Norwegian)
This content provides general information. Healthcare professionals can assess your child's symptoms, circumstances and treatment needs.