Why do some children enter puberty early?

Jodie Shield on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Healthcare

Obese children tend to begin puberty earlier than healthy weight children. This may predispose them to physical and psychological changes that they are intellectually not ready to handle. Also, kids who enter puberty early tend to not grow as tall as their peers who enter puberty at a later age.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Puberty

Puberty affects children between the ages of 11 and 14. The changes can be drastic and all at once, changing your physical growth, cognitive development, emotional and social skills, as well as sensory and motor development. Rapid changes often occur earlier in girl than in boys but both genders will go through physical and emotional changes that segue childhood into adulthood. If often is a difficult time of transition for the adolescent as well as the parents, but strong family support will reaffirm your childs sense of self.

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