Preteen angst

Between ages 8 and 12, children often worry whether they're "normal" — particularly when it comes to penis size and breast size. Explain what happens during puberty for both boys and girls.

Offer reassurance that children of the same age mature at different rates. Puberty might begin years earlier — or later — for some children, but eventually everyone catches up.

You might want to share experiences from your own development, particularly if you once had the same concerns that your child has now.