Puberty is the natural process of transformation from childhood to adulthood, and it happens at a different pace for everyone. As a parent, understanding the typical stages and signs can help you support your child through this period of rapid change with confidence and empathy. This guide provides a general timeline for the milestones of puberty for both boys and girls.
Use this tool to learn about the journey ahead, but remember that your child's personal timeline is unique.
How to Use the Puberty Timeline Guide
Simply select a gender below to see the common stages of development and the average age ranges in which they occur. This is not a calculator that predicts your child's specific dates, but rather a guide to the sequence of events.
The Puberty Timeline for Girls
For girls, puberty typically begins between the ages of 8 and 13.
- Early Stage (Age 8-13):
- ☐ The first sign is usually the development of breast buds, which are small mounds under the nipples.
- ☐ Pubic hair begins to appear, often starting as soft and fine.
- Growth Spurt (Age 9-14):
- ☐ Breasts continue to grow and become fuller.
- ☐ A rapid increase in height occurs (the peak growth spurt).
- ☐ Pubic hair becomes coarser and darker, and underarm hair begins to grow.
- ☐ Body shape changes, with hips widening.
- Menarche (Age 10-15):
- ☐ The first menstrual period (menarche) occurs. This typically happens about two years after breast buds first appear.
- ☐ Acne may appear on the face and back due to increased oil production.
- Adult Development (Age 12-17):
- ☐ Growth in height slows down and eventually stops as adult height is reached.
- ☐ Breasts develop into their adult size and shape.
- ☐ Menstrual cycles become more regular over time.
The Puberty Timeline for Boys
For boys, puberty typically begins between the ages of 9 and 14.
- Early Stage (Age 9-14):
- ☐ The first sign is the enlargement of the testicles.
- ☐ The scrotum thins and reddens.
- ☐ Pubic hair begins to appear at the base of the penis.
- Mid-Puberty / Growth Spurt (Age 10-16):
- ☐ The penis grows in length and then width.
- ☐ The voice begins to deepen and may 'crack' or 'break.'
- ☐ A rapid increase in height occurs (the peak growth spurt).
- ☐ Underarm and facial hair (mustache, beard) begins to grow.
- Late Puberty (Age 12-17):
- ☐ The first ejaculation (spermarche), often occurring during sleep (a 'wet dream'), happens.
- ☐ Acne may appear on the face and back.
- ☐ Voice deepens into its adult pitch.
- Adult Development (Up to Age 18+):
- ☐ Facial hair growth becomes more established.
- ☐ Growth in height slows and stops as adult height is reached.
- ☐ Chest and shoulder muscles broaden, taking on an adult male physique.
How to Support Your Child Through Puberty
Navigating these changes can be awkward for kids. Your open and supportive presence is key.
- Start Conversations Early: Talk about the upcoming changes in a simple, factual way before they happen.
- Provide Practical Support: Help them navigate new hygiene needs by providing deodorant, face wash for acne, bras, and menstrual products.
- Reassure Them: Remind them that everyone develops at a different pace and that their timeline is normal for them.
- Focus on Health: Encourage a healthy diet and regular physical activity to support their growing bodies.
Important Medical Notes
This timeline represents a wide range of what is considered normal. However, if your child shows signs of puberty before age 8 (for girls) or age 9 (for boys), this is known as precocious puberty. Conversely, if there are no signs by age 13 (for girls) or age 14 (for boys), this is considered delayed puberty. In either of these cases, you should consult your pediatrician for an evaluation.