Another unscientific poll - how does male puberty progress?

[Anonymous]

The whole 9 yards, from fine to coarse hair in various spots, age of emissions, voice changes, growth. How did your child progress through the various stages, how long was it between stages? Single mom with adopted son; pediatrician checks off boxes and is brusque. PLease help!

[Anonymous]

Sorry, but I haven't been sitting here writing in my journal noting the changes, and I'm guessIng that most other parents aren't either. My main focus these past couple of years is staying on top of his knucklehead, spaced out, totally normal behaviors around getting school work done.

Most of the male puberty changes are so gradual that you don't really notice them. And they're different for every kid. My son's voice just started to change noticeably this spring, whereas his friend's voice changed well over a year ago. The boys are only 5 months apart in age.

--mom of an almost 14 year old

[Anonymous]

Here's a great book to explain puberty to you and your son.

http://www.amazon.com/Its-So-Amazing-Families-Library/dp/0763613215

Highly recommend it.

[Anonymous]

1st stage of true puberty (central puberty starting from pituitary) is testicular enlargement. Pubic hair or aciliary hair can come before, at same time or just after testicular enlargement. Hair and body odor are considered peripheral puberty coming from androgens. Growth spurt in boys occurs mid to late puberty in boys.

A book will help. The above was just basic. Every boy is a little different with timing. It also differs somewhat depending on race (more/less hairy, etc) family history can play a role when puberty starts.

You may want a different pediatrician.