Physical
Development
- May experience growth spurt if female
(usually a year or two later for males).
- May tire easily and appear lazy.
- May look out of proportion.
- Is preoccupied with and self-conscious
about appearance.
- Appetite may fluctuate sharply.
- Enjoys observing or participating in
competitive sports.
- Is keenly interested in learning about
body changes.
- May be curious about drugs, alcohol,
and tobacco.
Emotional Development
- May be experiencing sudden, dramatic,
emotional changes associated with puberty.
- Vacillates between maturity one
moment, immaturity the next.
- Tends to conceal feelings.
- Is hard on self and ultrasensitive to
criticism.
Social Development
- Wants parents' help, but may resist
when offered.
- Is critical of parents.
- Is concerned with prestige and
popularity.
- Likes to belong to a group and be like
others.
- Becomes quite faddish.
- Prefers to spend time on weekends with
friends.
- Friendships may change due to
different levels of maturity.
- Is very aware of the opposite sex.
Mental Development
- Has an increasing attention and
concentration span.
- Strives to succeed.
- Has strong opinions.
- Begins to understand other peoples'
motives.
These guidelines are offered as a way of showing a general
progression through the developmental stages rather than as
fixed requirements for normal development at specific ages.
It is perfectly natural for a child to attain some
milestones earlier and other milestones later than the
general trend.
If you have any concerns related to your
child's own pattern of development, check with your health
care provider.