Adolescent Development
All children develop at their own pace and in their own unique ways—just take a look at any group of 7th graders if you have any doubts about this! However, there are some common changes that most pre-teens and early teens (ages 12-14) experience.
Although young people benefit from quality programs and activities, the physical, emotional and social changes they're going through may be a barrier to their involvement. Youth workers who understand these changes—and then offer effective programs and support—can encourage healthy eating and physical activity.
Take a look at the resources on this page for some tips to better understand this terrific age group and to help them grow up to be happy, healthy adults.
Common changes among pre-teens and early teens include:
- Physical changes. Kids at this age start to grow and develop adult characteristics rapidly. They'll notice new hair growth, flare-ups of acne, changes to their reproductive systems and differences in how their bodies look. And they will be obsessed with how their own changing bodies compare to those of their peers. Make sure the young people in your life know that all this is normal and it will all even out!
- Emotional changes. Surges in hormone levels can lead to emotional upheavals and mood swings. These are usually normal but can be tough for everybody to deal with. Try to stay calm, take a deep breath and not take remarks too personally.
- Cognitive (thinking) changes. When pre-teens and teens gain more ability to think abstractly and use reason, they can find themselves embroiled in more conflicts with adults. They can reason enough to question rules, debate restrictions and identify discrepancies between what adults say and what they do. Be consistent and stick to your guns, but don't impose rules that don't make sense. If possible, let youth have some say-so in establishing the rules. You may be surprised at how sensible teens and pre-teens can be!
- Social changes. Generally, time spent with friends increases while time spent with family decreases. At the same time, young people often lose some confidence and can become more self-conscious. They feel more awkward as they compare themselves to the media “ideal” and also feel less comfortable in their quickly developing bodies. Always send the message to teens and pre-teens that they're just fine the way they are and that they can always come to you with concerns.
- Promoting Health with Community Partners
- A young person’s development is enhanced when the family, the school and community programs work well together and consistently support positive development. One of the most effective ways an adult youth leader can promote health is to be an advocate, a “voice” for youth who usually have no access to adult-led structures, forums and venues. Although teens and pre-teens can benefit tremendously when communities work together for better health, they can't vote, so parents and adult youth leaders must speak on their behalf.
- Promoting Health Among Pre-Teens and Teens
- Although 80% of youth won’t experience serious problems as they develop, it is estimated that 10 million American teens are at risk of not becoming successful adults (White House Task Force for Disadvantaged Youth, 2005). This level of risk for many young people emphasizes the importance of caring adults who pull together and support healthy development for all youth.