#Thaiparents

Recent research and expert opinion highlight a growing trend worldwide: children are reaching puberty earlier than previous generations. This shift, described in a new book by a leading US clinical psychologist and echoed by global medical research, has deep implications for both physical and mental health. For Thai families, understanding what early puberty means—and how to support children through it—has never been more important.

Traditionally, puberty marked a transitional period from childhood to adolescence, typically starting around age 10 for girls and 12 for boys. But in recent years, doctors and parents alike have noticed that children as young as six are showing physical signs of development, outpacing their emotional and cognitive maturity. As Thai society becomes increasingly urbanized and children’s free time shrinks—driven by academic pressures and technology—this gap between body and mind is widening. According to the US psychologist cited in the Boston Globe report, ages six to 12 are now seen as the most crucial window for parents to influence and guide children before they are swept up in the whirlwind of adolescence.

A growing global trend shows children entering puberty earlier than previous generations. A new book by a leading US clinical psychologist, reinforced by international research, signals far-reaching implications for physical and mental health. For Thai families, understanding early puberty and how to support children through it is increasingly essential.

Puberty has long marked the transition from childhood to adolescence, typically beginning around age 10 for girls and 12 for boys. Recently, doctors and parents note signs of development in children as young as six. As urban living increases in Thailand and academic pressures grow, the gap between physical changes and emotional readiness widens. Observers say ages six to twelve are a critical window for guiding children before adolescence accelerates.