Puberty Preparation Checklist for Parents

A guide for supporting boys and girls with confidence and consistency Use this checklist as a gradual planning tool, not a pass/fail list. Every child develops at their own pace.

START EARLY: FOUNDATIONAL SKILLS (Ages 7–8)

• Teach correct body part names

• Introduce private vs. public body rules

• Begin daily hygiene routines (washing body, hands, face)

• Teach bathroom privacy and door-closing

• Introduce deodorant as part of routine (even before needed)

• Normalize talking about bodies using calm, neutral language

• Identify trusted adults your child can talk to

BUILD AWARENESS: PUBERTY EDUCATION (Ages 8–10)

• Explain that bodies change as we grow

• Introduce puberty using simple, concrete language

• Teach that puberty happens to all boys and girls (at different times)

• Use visuals, books, or social stories

• Discuss emotions and mood changes in simple terms

• Teach coping strategies for big feelings (breaks, calming tools)

• Reinforce personal boundaries and consent

HYGIENE & SELF-CARE SKILLS (Before Physical Changes Begin)

Daily Hygiene

• Showering or bathing routine established

• Hair washing schedule practised

• Deodorant used independently or with prompts

• Clean clothes chosen daily☐ Laundry awareness (dirty vs. clean clothes)

Grooming (When Appropriate)

• Hair brushing and care

• Tooth brushing routine

• Nail care

• Shaving education (only when developmentally appropriate)

FEMALE-SPECIFIC PREPARATION

• Explain menstruation before first period

• Teach that bleeding is normal and not an injury

• Practise pad or period underwear routines

• Identify where menstrual supplies are kept

• Practise changing pads at home

• Teach hand-washing after menstrual care

• Plan for periods at school or in the community

• Identify trusted adults to ask for help

MALE-SPECIFIC PREPARATION

• Explain body growth and voice changes

• Discuss erections in clear, factual terms

• Teach that erections can happen unexpectedly

• Teach privacy rules related to erections

• Explain nocturnal emissions (“wet dreams”) if appropriate

• Normalize questions and curiosity

EMOTIONAL & REGULATION SUPPORT

• Teach names for basic emotions

• Identify signs of stress or discomfort

• Practise asking for help or breaks

• Support regulation strategies (movement, quiet time, sensory tools)

• Reinforce that mood changes are normal

SAFETY, PRIVACY & BOUNDARIES

• Teach which body parts are private

• Teach appropriate vs. inappropriate touch

• Teach who it is okay to talk to about puberty

• Reinforce bathroom and bedroom privacy

• Teach consent and personal space

• Review online safety as developmentally appropriate

BUILD YOUR SUPPORT TEAM

• Connect with paediatrician or family doctor

• Discuss puberty timeline and concerns

• Connect with ABA provider for skill teaching

• Consult OT for sensory-based hygiene challenges

• Consult mental health professional if anxiety is present

• Communicate with school team if support is needed

ONGOING PARENT SUPPORT

• Use consistent language across caregivers

• Keep routines predictable

• Use visuals and checklists

• Celebrate progress without pressure

• Revisit topics regularly

• Adjust expectations as your child grows

REMEMBER

✔ Puberty preparation is a process, not a single conversation

✔ Start early and move slowly

✔ Visuals and routines are powerful tools

✔ Independence looks different for every child

✔ Dignity, safety, and confidence come first