Scientists have been taking a closer look at this stage and believe children start experiencing a surge of hormones between the ages of 6 and 8, which can cause heightened emotions.
During pre-pubescence, the hormones are active, but not yet in synch. The discombobulated hormones are like ping-pong balls firing away, and the body doesn't know what to do. Sensitive feelings, crying, attitude problems and moodiness can all come into play.
During puberty your child's emotions may become stronger and more intense. Their mood might change more frequently, quickly and randomly. Your child may have strong emotions that they've never experienced before. It's common for them to feel confused, scared or angry and not know why.
Both boys and girls experience physical, hormonal and emotional changes during this time. These changes are part of a process known as puberty. Many girls begin puberty at around 10, while boys often begin this process at around 11.
As they move toward puberty, their hormones begin to fluctuate, causing emotional instability. 1 Tweens also lack the emotional development to fully control their moods. In other words, they express exactly what they're feeling like they're feeling it.
If your 7- or 8-year-old has suddenly started acting moody and tearful, you're not alone. The changes in their behavior may be due to adrenarche, which can affect how your child handles their emotions.
In girls: The first sign of puberty is usually breast development. Then hair grows in the pubic area and armpits. Menstruation (or a period) usually happens last.
Typically, a girl gets her period about 2 years after her breasts start to develop. Another sign is vaginal discharge fluid (sort of like mucus) that a girl might see or feel on her underwear. This discharge usually begins about 6 months to a year before a girl gets her first period.
When your child's period is coming, they might have a range of physical symptoms, including sore breasts, pimples and greasy hair. Your child might also have a sore tummy, feel sick or have diarrhoea. Period pain and these associated symptoms are common.
Physical changes for girls around puberty
Body shape - Your hips will widen and your body will get curvier. Height - You will grow taller. Acne - You may develop acne. This is a condition of the skin that shows up as bumps – most commonly on the face, neck, shoulders, upper back and chest.
Nine-year-olds are maturing emotionally and becoming more cognitively advanced. They are continuing to grow taller and stronger and they may be mentally ready to excel in sports and other physical activities. But don't be surprised when they suddenly become tired, moody, or change interests day-to-day.
But early puberty is associated with a daunting list of adverse physical and psychological outcomes: various studies have suggested that early-maturing girls are at greater risk for developing obesity, breast cancer, eating disorders, depression, and a range of behavioral issues.
How long does puberty last? In girls, puberty usually starts between ages 9 and 14. Once it begins, it lasts about 2 to 5 years.
Most commonly, especially in girls, precocious puberty is due to the brain sending signals earlier than it should. There is no other underlying medical problem or trigger. This also can often run in families. Less often, precocious puberty stems from a more serious problem, such as a tumor or trauma.
One common trigger is frustration when a child cannot get what he or she wants or is asked to do something that he or she might not feel like doing. For children, anger issues often accompany other mental health conditions, including ADHD, autism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Tourette's syndrome.
Changes in your child's interest in everyday activities
doesn't have as much energy as they usually do. doesn't want to be around friends and family. isn't interested in playing or doing things they used to enjoy. has problems sleeping, including nightmares.
Environmental factors, such as unexpected life events and/or chronic stress, can also contribute to a mood disorder. Mood disorders often run in families, so there is a genetic component, too. Children who have relatives with depression are at increased risk for depression.
Their curiosity is likely growing, and they might ask a lot of questions about the world around them. They may start to show more creativity in things like writing, designing, or performing arts. They might also start to develop hobbies or collect things.
Most females will start puberty when they're 8 to 13 years old, and most males will start between 9 and 14. But it can also be normal to start earlier or later. Hormones from the brain trigger the start of puberty. Hormones are chemical messengers that tell the body what to do.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder in children include: Serious mood swings that differ from their usual mood swings. These happen often, can last a long time, and greatly affect the way a child acts. Being very hyperactive, impulsive and aggressive, which affects how a child acts socially and in other areas of life.
Continuous feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Difficulty concentrating. Fatigue and low energy. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.