Purpose of the site Puberty and adolescence can be a tough time for the whole family, not just for those going through it themselves. Facts of Life describes the changes of puberty in a frank, factual and accessible style, set within the wider context of human growth and development. Whilst focusing on the science, the site provides a balanced treatment that considers the emotional as well as the biological changes that children will go through. The site is useful for students who are studying for Key Stage 3, or at stages S1 and S2 in Scotland, and beyond. The material will help with Science work and also Personal, Social and Health Education. There are lots of interactive graphics, exam tips and quizzes to keep it interesting and to check progress and understanding. Designed for school or home use, students can use the site for reference or work all the way through from start to finish. 'You could even try the quizzes yourselves - it might be fun for me to find out what you know!' Top Parts of the site likely to be of interest 'I sometimes find it hard to believe that you went through puberty yourselves! These are some of the sections that might be useful reminders for you and which might help you to understand a bit more about it.' The section on Puberty might refresh your memory and give you some idea what to expect. Most families experience some tension and conflict during this time, and knowing a little about the biology behind puberty might help. There are also links here to sites where you can get more information if you are concerned about any aspect of your child's development. The section on Food contains some good, up-to-date information on healthy eating. There's also information on eating disorders which are becoming increasingly common amongst teenagers (although girls are chiefly affected, boys too can experience problems). The section on Sex goes beyond just the biology of reproduction. Personal, Social and Health Education provides a useful structure through which to discuss sex and relationships in school. Even so, children would often prefer to talk about these things within the family. 'I know it's sometimes hard for you to acknowledge that I am growing up and preparing to lead my own life, but you have to realise how important it is that I am prepared for the body changes and feelings that will happen to me.' Ignorance is responsible for a lot of stress and misunderstanding within families and it can easily be put right. Top Getting the most from the site There are frequent prompts in the site for young people to talk about their worries and feelings, with their parents if they can. 'If you are ready to discuss what can sometimes be quite sensitive issues, it might make me feel like I can confide in you more and be more open to your help and advice. On the other hand, you can't make me talk if it isn't the right time.' A very common experience is to find that your teenage children seem to be drifting away from you, but trying to make them talk to you can be counter-productive as they develop their independence. What they need from you, above all else, is unconditional love. Top Warning signs to watch out for in your son or daughter 'Everybody knows, including me, how difficult having adolescent children can be.' You know very well that mood swings, ingratitude, aggression and rudeness towards parents are all par for the course, and there is no magic formula to resolving these tensions. Very occasionally, however, teenagers can find themselves in much more serious difficulties that go beyond what could be considered 'normal'. 'Being picked on or bullied can be an utterly miserable experience.' If you are concerned about bullying, there's some sensible, practical information at Bullying Online: http://www.bullying.co.uk A sudden change in behaviour could be a sign of more serious stress or depression, beyond a stage that teenagers go through. Signs that should trigger alarm bells include: Becoming extremely withdrawn Dramatic gain or loss of weight Extreme mood swings Shaky hands Not making eye contact Lethargy and lacking interest in anything Deterioration in personal hygiene Don't ignore these signs. Better to act and be accused of being a fusspot than to risk the welfare of your son or daughter. If you are worried that your child is becoming seriously depressed, try spending some time with them and listening to their problems. If they won't talk to you, see if there is somebody trustworthy they are prepared to talk to. This could be a grandparent or somebody outside of the family, maybe a tutor or head of year at school. Early help often prevents problems becoming serious. If all else fails, maybe suggest a phone call to the Samaritans. It might seem drastic, but a conversation with someone impartial in total confidence might be the way forward. It's quick and easy to contact them and they are great listeners as well as understanding people. Both men and women Samaritans are available. The Samaritans http://www.samaritans.org Tel: 08457 909090 Top Which other websites would be useful? If you're having problems coping with a teenage son or daughter you're not alone! Parentline Plus is a UK registered charity that provides help and support for parents. http://www.parentline.co.uk The National Children's Bureau promotes the interests and well-being of all young people and encourages their participation in all matters affecting them. www.ncb.org.uk The National Family and Parenting Institute works to support parents in bringing up their children. www.nfpi.org.uk Top Who is responsible for this site? This site has been created on behalf of the Child Growth Foundation, which is a UK registered charity http://www.cgf.org.uk Financial support has been generously provided by Nestlé UK http://www.nestle.co.uk Content is by Learning Unlimited http://www.learning-unlimited.co.uk Web design by Page Multimedia http://www.page-group.co.uk Whom can I contact about this site? Good? Bad? Useful? Tell us what you think! Top