You have questions? We have answers!
We are pediatricians. We would love to discuss all of this information with the adolescents in our office. Unfortunately, the current context of health care does not leave enough time to address these issues with the type of attention that they deserve. In addition, we have researched the best ways to get you and your child interested in learning about their bodies. Come join us at a program to learn everything you need to know.
Most experts agree that “8 is great” when it comes to starting conversations about puberty. There is evidence to suggest that puberty is starting earlier, and it is best to discuss what changes to expect BEFORE any of them happen. Also, they may not yet be showing puberty changes, but their friends might be. Don’t leave them wondering!
Good Question. We do not talk about how babies are made in our Body Basics Program. In fact, there is really no discussion of sexuality in the workshop at all. At young ages (ages 8-10), kids often have no context of sexuality yet, that is why we believe it is the EASIEST time to talk to them about these issues (the younger the better!) . We encourage you, however, to use our resources that we share at our workshops to help you continue the conversation at home. Books help you to find the words you need when you are struggling. We also offer parent-only classes to help you start these conversations!
Parenting is so hard sometimes! We recommend the following: Remember that you made the decision that your child would benefit from our workshop. (You don’t ask your child if he or she would like to go to the doctor or dentist, right?) Most tweens are not thrilled about going to a workshop to talk about their changing body. You can remind them that even the most hesitant kids learn, participate and even have fun! They may be uncomfortable with the topic, but they will not be singled out or embarrassed during the program.
Please refer to the age guidelines and descriptions for programs. If you are looking for a program on puberty for girls, we recommend that most girls start with the Body Basics class. However, if you are looking for a class for a girl that is “older” (age 12+) AND is already menstruating, starting with the Body Care class is appropriate. Feel free to contact us with any further questions!
Explore our website for more information about our programs and resources. Or reach out to us directly with inquiries or to schedule a workshop. We are here to support you and your child throughout their adolescent journey.
Yes, we offer our programs globally. Whether you are located within the United States or internationally, we are dedicated to providing puberty education and support families worldwide.
Only about half of the states in the U.S. require public schools to teach sex ed. Unfortunately, often times the information is presented too late and with outdated resources. The course is often a brief interlude of gym class – not nearly enough time to address the magnitude and importance of the subject.
Do you know:
- Who is teaching that class in the school?
- What type of training is provided to prepare them to teach this class?
- What materials are being used to teach the class?
- What is the specific content of the class?
- What are your state’s restrictions on providing information about controversial areas such as contraception?
- Does the information resonate with your child so it will sink in?
You may not know the answers to most of the above questions, and that is OK. Every school and district is different. The point of Turning Teen is to help to guide your child through puberty with you at their side, and not worry if enough is being done elsewhere. We will help you start the conversation so that you can continue it at home.
We welcome collaborations with schools and organizations to bring our puberty programs to a wider audience. We offer tailored workshops and resources for educators and can collaborate to create a comprehensive sexual health education curriculum.
Yes, we encourage parents and guardians to participate in our programs in the community and small group settings. Turning Teen designs school programs for students without the presence of trusted adults, but those adults learn about the programs in advance. We offer resources and guidance to help parents navigate conversations about puberty through our parent programs.
We offer both in-person and virtual workshops to accommodate accessibility and different preferences. Physicians facilitate our engaging, non-intimidating workshops. Programs are typically delivered in an interactive, lecture-style format.
Absolutely. We believe in inclusivity and provide a safe and supportive environment for all, regardless of their background, religious affiliation, ethnicity, or identity. Our science-based programs embrace diversity and promote body positivity and self-acceptance.
Our programs cover a wide range of topics related to puberty, including physical changes, emotional well-being, menstrual health, hygiene, body image, self-care, sexual maturation, body safety, and healthy relationships. We ensure that all children have a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of puberty. Please see each specific program page for a list of program-specific content.
Pediatricians trained in the Turning Teen curriculum present our programs.
At Turning Teen, we strongly believe in helping parents start delicate, sometimes difficult conversations about puberty and sexuality with their children. We want to provide direct, informative and honest information to make conversations easier as your child grows into an adult. We want to ask (and answer!) the hard questions so you don’t have to.
Our programs are specifically tailored for children ages 8-14 who are experiencing or approaching puberty. Our programs can take place in a community setting, through small groups, at school or online.
Turning Teen, founded by pediatricians, provides comprehensive puberty and sexual health education and support for young girls and boys and their trusted adults. We offer workshops, resources, and programs that empower children as they move through a transformative stage of life: Puberty. We also have programming that addresses Body Image and the Mind-Body Connection.
