Puberty Sexual Education For Boys And Girls 1991 English46 Upd __top__ Access
Growing Up: Changes & Choices
A Guide for Young People (1991)
Puberty is not a disease, and you are not alone. Every adult you know—every teacher, parent, rock star, and bus driver—has gone through it. This booklet is for both girls and boys, because understanding what happens to everyone helps you feel less strange and more respectful of yourself and others.
Part Six: Sex, Pressure & "Just Say No" (1991 Context)
This is the part many adults are nervous to talk about. But you deserve clear information. Growing Up: Changes & Choices A Guide for
- Sexual intercourse is when a man places his penis inside a woman’s vagina. It is an act that most adults share only with someone they love and trust deeply. It is not something to do as a kid or a young teenager.
- Why wait?
- You could get a sexually transmitted disease (STD) – even the first time.
- A girl could get pregnant – even the first time.
- Sex brings up very strong feelings – jealousy, confusion, heartbreak – that most 12- or 13-year-olds are not ready to handle.
- Pressure – Someone might say, “Everyone’s doing it.” They’re lying. Most kids your age are not having sex. Someone might say, “If you loved me, you would.” That’s a trick. Real love respects a “no.”
- How to say no – “I like you, but I’m not ready.” “My parents would kill me.” Or just, “No.” You don’t owe a long explanation.
Touching yourself (masturbation) – Many boys and girls explore their own bodies. It is not harmful, it does not cause blindness or pimples or insanity (old myths). It’s private – do it alone in your room, not in public.
Growing Up: A Guide to Puberty for Boys and Girls
Published: 1991
If you are between the ages of 9 and 14, you may have noticed your body beginning to change. You might feel confused, excited, or even a little worried. Don’t worry—everyone goes through this. Puberty is the time when your body changes from a child’s into an adult’s, making it possible to have children one day.
Here is a straightforward look at what boys and girls can expect. Remember, everyone develops at their own pace. Sexual intercourse is when a man places his
Hygiene and body care
- Bathe regularly; use deodorant once sweating/odor begins.
- Clean genitals gently; avoid harsh soaps.
- Change underwear daily; use menstrual products (pads, tampons, menstrual cups) and follow instructions for safe use.
- Trim nails and maintain oral hygiene—changes in diet and hormones can affect skin and breath.
For Girls (Usually ages 9–13)
What is happening inside?
Your ovaries are releasing the female hormone oestrogen. This triggers physical changes.
The Main Changes:
- Breasts (Thelarche): The first sign is usually “breast buds”—small, tender lumps under the nipple. One breast may grow faster than the other (that’s normal). Over 2-3 years, they reach adult shape.
- Body Shape: Your hips will widen. You will gain some healthy fat on your thighs, buttocks, and upper arms—this is nature’s way of preparing your body.
- Hair Growth: Fine hair becomes coarse and curly under the arms and in the pubic area (around the vagina).
- Vaginal Discharge: A few months before your first period, you may notice a white or yellowish stain in your underwear. This is normal—it means your body is cleaning itself.
- Menstruation (Your “Period”): Around age 12–13, you will begin to bleed from the vagina for 3–7 days each month. This is not an illness; it is the lining of your uterus (womb) shedding because an egg was not fertilised. Use a sanitary pad (towel) or tampon. Periods can be irregular at first.
