How does your child grow and develop between the ages of 11 and 14?

The ages between 11 and 14 years are often referred to as early adolescence. These years are an exciting time of many rapid changes. Your child grows taller and stronger and also starts to feel and think in more mature ways. You may feel amazed as you watch your child begin to turn into an adult. But this can be a confusing time for both kids and parents. Both must get used to the new person the child is becoming.

Between ages 11 and 14, a child develops in four main areas:

• Physical development. Adolescence is a time of change throughout the body. A growth spurt usually happens right before puberty. Girls begin to develop breasts and start their periods. Boys grow facial hair. Both boys and girls grow pubic hair. Boys may lag behind girls in height during these years, but they usually end up taller.
• Cognitive development. This is how the brain develops the abilities to think, learn, reason, and remember. Kids this age typically focus on the present, but they are starting to understand that what they do now can have long-term effects. They are also beginning to see that issues are not just black and white and that information can be interpreted in different ways.
• Emotional and social development. As they start to move from childhood into adulthood, adolescents feel the urge to be more independent from their families. Often, friends replace parents as a source of advice. When at home, adolescents may prefer spending time alone to being part of the family. Still, family support is important to help them build a strong sense of self.
• Sensory and motor development. Kids this age may be a little awkward or clumsy. Their brains need time to adjust to longer limbs and bigger bodies. Getting regular moderate exercise can improve coordination and help your child build healthy habits.

When are routine medical visits needed?

Yearly doctor visits are important to detect problems and to make sure your adolescent is growing and developing normally. During these visits, the doctor will do a physical exam and give your child any needed shots. The doctor will also ask questions about your child's friends, school, and activities to see how he or she is doing.

It is a good idea to give an adolescent some time alone with the doctor. This gives your child a chance to ask questions that he or she may not feel comfortable asking you.

Adolescents should also have yearly dental checkups to make sure their teeth are strong and healthy.

When should you call your doctor?

Call your doctor anytime you have a concern about your child's physical or emotional health, such as:

• A delay in growth or sexual development-for example, if puberty has not begun by age 14.
• A big change in appetite or weight.
• Body image problems, such as a girl believing she is overweight when she is actually very thin. This can be a sign of an eating disorder.
• Signs of mental health issues, including depression, mood swings, fighting, missing school, or failing classes.
• Drug or alcohol use.