The poll shows that about half of parents take a proactive approach to discussing puberty, while two in five only bring it up when their child asks
A new study from the University of Michigan Health’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital reveals that American parents are evenly divided on when to begin conversations about puberty with their children.
While nearly all parents agree that it’s important to talk to kids about body changes, there is significant uncertainty over the appropriate age and how to approach the topic, according to the Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health.
“It’s easy to assume a child is too young for conversations about puberty, but many parents are surprised to find their tween already showing signs or asking questions,” said Sarah Clark, co-director of the Mott Poll. “Starting the conversation early gives parents a chance to shape the message in an age-appropriate way and help kids know what to expect.”
The poll shows that about half of parents take a proactive approach to discussing puberty, while two in five only bring it up when their child asks. Five per cent of parents avoid the topic entirely.
For many, embarrassment and fear of saying the wrong thing are major barriers. One in five parents admitted feeling awkward, while one in six worried about how to explain things correctly.
Among parents of 10–12-year-olds, one in four said their child was unwilling to talk about puberty. For younger children aged 7–9, nearly a third of parents believed their child was too young to understand.
Clark noted that parents’ hesitancy may reflect their own upbringing. “Many parents reported having little or no discussion about puberty when they were young. If it was treated as an awkward or embarrassing subject back then, that can influence how they handle it now.”
A key concern for parents was how and when to introduce topics of sex and reproduction. Experts suggest starting with simple, age-appropriate explanations about physical and emotional changes, gradually building to more detailed conversations as children grow.
“Ongoing, supportive discussions are crucial as children encounter different stages of development,” Clark added. “If parents don’t open the door, kids may turn to less reliable sources like social media, peers, or TV.”
The study highlights the importance of open, honest, and early communication between parents and children—especially when it comes to growing up.
