Puberty is the stage in life when a child’s body begins to change into that of an adult

• It is controlled by hormones (chemical messengers like estrogen and testosterone).


• It prepares boys and girls for reproduction (ability to have children).


• It usually occurs between ages 10–16, though the timing varies from person to person.

Adolescence is the period between childhood and adulthood.

1. It involves physical, emotional, mental, and social development.


2. It covers roughly ages 10–19 years.


3. Puberty is part of adolescence, but adolescence is a broader stage that continues after puberty starts.

1. Broadening of shoulders.


2. Growth of hair on face, chest, armpits, and pubic region.


3. Deepening of the voice (voice breaks).


4. Enlargement of penis and testes.


5. Wet dreams (release of semen during sleep).


6. Growth spurt – sudden increase in height and weight.


7. Development of muscles.


8. Increased body odour and oily skin (possible pimples).

1. Development of breasts.


2. Widening of hips and increase in body fat.


3. Growth of hair in armpits and pubic region.


4. Beginning of menstruation (monthly period).


5. Enlargement of the uterus and ovaries.


6. Growth spurt – increase in height and weight.


7. Oily skin and pimples.


8. Vaginal discharge may appear before menstruation begins.

1. Mood swings and strong emotions.


2. Desire for independence.


3. Search for personal identity.


4. Attraction to the opposite sex / curiosity about relationships.


5. Feeling self-conscious about body image.


6. Influence of peer groups becomes stronger.

1. Bathe daily and wash armpits, groin, and feet properly.


2. Use deodorant or antiperspirant to control body odour.


3. Brush teeth twice daily and keep breath fresh.


4. Wash hair and keep scalp clean.


5. Wear clean cotton underwear; change daily.


6. Wash uniforms and clothes regularly.


7. For girls:


• Use sanitary pads or other safe products during menstruation.


• Change pads every 3–6 hours, wrap and dispose properly.


• Wash hands before and after changing pads.

• Definition: The monthly flow of blood from the uterus when pregnancy does not occur.


• Cycle length: Usually 21–35 days, though it may be irregular at first.


• Period lasts: 2–7 days.


• Symptoms: Cramps, mood changes, backache, bloating.


• Management: Rest, exercise, warm compress, good diet, and proper menstrual hygiene.


• When to seek help: If periods are very painful, very heavy, or stop suddenly for months without explanation.

1. Accurate information about body changes and sexuality.


2. Good nutrition to support rapid growth.


3. Personal hygiene items (soap, deodorant, pads for girls).


4. Love, guidance, and support from parents, teachers, and guardians.


5. Good friends and role models for positive influence.


6. Opportunities for recreation, learning, and skill development.


7. Privacy and respect as they grow.

1. Peer pressure (influence to join in risky behaviour).


2. Confusion about body changes and sexuality.


3. Emotional stress and mood swings.


4. Low self-esteem and body image problems.


5. Temptation to engage in risky behaviour (drugs, unsafe sex, truancy).


6. Conflict with parents/teachers due to desire for independence.


7. Menstrual pain and embarrassment (for girls).

1. Seek guidance from parents, teachers, counsellors.


2. Choose good friends who encourage positive behaviour.


3. Stay active with healthy hobbies (sports, reading, skills).


4. Say “NO” to bad habits and risky behaviour.


5. Eat balanced meals, rest well, and practice good hygiene.


6. Build self-confidence and express feelings openly but respectfully.

• Rights: Accurate health information, privacy, dignity, respect, protection from abuse.


• Responsibilities: Maintain personal hygiene, respect others, make safe choices, and seek help when needed.

• Myth: “Periods are dirty.” → Fact: Menstruation is a healthy, natural process.


• Myth: “Wet dreams mean sickness.” → Fact: They are normal signs of puberty.


• Myth: “Puberty and adolescence are the same thing.” → Fact: Puberty is part of adolescence, but adolescence includes more.