Fairfield-Echo.com

(HealthDay News) -- In girls, puberty typically happens somewhere around age 11; for boys, somewhere around age 12. Puberty causes various hormonal changes in youngsters that can be difficult for them to deal with.

Here are suggestions to help your child through puberty, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:

• Try to help your child improve self-esteem. Mention that everyone's body is different and changes differently, and that you love him or her just the way they are.
• Explain to your child that what is happening is normal.
• Tell your child that you will help with any physical or emotional problem.
• Set up an appointment with a family doctor or counselor if you think your child is having a difficult time adjusting, either emotionally or physically.