When Do Boys Start Maturing?

There's a wide berth of what's considered normal in relation to the timing of puberty. While some boys will start maturing between 9 and 10 years of age, maturation might delay until as late as 13 in some boys. The point is that it will happen to all preteens and teens at some point. Knowing when to expect some of the changes your teen will experience through puberty means you'll be readily available to explain the maturation process and support your teen through what can be a sensitive time.

  1. Reproductive Maturation

    • One of the first changes your son will notice at the beginning of puberty is changes to his reproductive organs. According to the Family Education website, penile growth and the enlargement of the testes can begin as early as 10 years of age. This can come with the side effect of more frequent erections and nocturnal emissions, which might be embarrassing for your preteen or teen. Assure him that changes to the reproductive organs are completely normal -- changes can occur until around 13 or 14 years of age.

    Skin and Hair

    • As your son experiences more of the side effects of puberty, one of the most obvious and noticeable will be changes to his skin and hair. Expect changes to occur from the ages of 10 to 15, particularly when it comes to the new growth of underarm and pubic hair. An influx of hormones can also affect his skin oil balance, which can result in acne and greasy-looking hair as well. If it's bothering your teen, talk to his doctor about seeing a dermatologist to create a care plan for his skin.

    Voice Changes

    • A childlike voice can give way to a much deeper tone around age 11 to age 14, notes the Palo Alto Medical Foundation website. In the years before his voice has fully matured, your son might experience "cracking," or an abrupt change between low and high pitches while talking. While it can seem embarrassing, it's a normal part of the change, brought about because of an influx of testosterone in the body.

    Body Growth

    • It might be time to get a bigger new tape measure -- expect your son to experience an increase in body growth from about age 10 all the way to age 16. This is where boys can differ from their peers. Some boys will have a growth spurt early on, while others won't experience extreme body growth until their later teen years. Because growth can happen swiftly, don't be surprised if your once-graceful teen suddenly becomes awkward and clumsy, warns the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center website.

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