I am in sixth grade at an elementary school. Age of 12. I am way taller than everybody else, and more “developed”. I have all the signs of puberty. People are always making fun of my height. One time, someone looked at me, and YELLED “whoa you have big boobs!” and everyone looked at me funny for weeks. I’m always nervous that I’ve leaked my period, so sometimes I will walk funny. That is totally embarrassing. I’m nervous of someone seeing my pit and leg hair. It’s already happened, but I want to keep it low. My problem is, I’m always made fun of or embarrassed by my puberty status. How can I keep the teasing low and the blushing minimum?

-Mrs. John Cena‘

Dear Puberty Cena,
I was a middling myself, not too mature, but also not the flattest flower in the garden of awkward preteen life. I remember that a girl friend of mine had boobs in third grade, and I was so jealous of her. To make up for what I lacked in physical anomalies, I had glasses, braces, and old lady hair… definitely not a flattering look might I add. Fourth grade through seventh grade was the most difficult stage of my life. I was short, kind of chunky, probably smelled bad, and had tiny boobs, but nothing you really needed a bra for. If I were in sixth grade now, I would kill to trade places with you. I know you feel like the odd- man out right now, but just wait until everyone else starts getting hair in weird places and their periods. You’ll be an old pro by then.

If your arm and leg hair make you uncomfortable, ask your mom if you could start shaving. As for the period waddle, I am the most neurotic person when it comes to surfing the crimson wave. Ask a bud to spotcheck you. It may be uncomfortable at first, but if she has your back now, you’ll have hers later when she’s going through the same thing. It may also help to get on a schedule. Head to the bathroom every three hours to avoid embarrassing moments.

Sixth grade is a difficult time for everyone. Everyone has insecurities about their bodies, so don’t worry… YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Nicole Kidman was tall and awkward when she was young, and look at what a bombshell she turned out to be. In a year or so all the boys will shoot up and be taller than you and all the girls will suddenly be on par physically with you. We don’t all mature at the same rate, it has a lot to do with genetics. If their teasing continues you can either ignore it and chalk it up to their own insecurities, or confront them. Its hard to keep face when you’re mortified, but if you keep your head held high, eventually they will stop. Just remember, when other girls start going through what you’re going through now, they could stand to have a friend like you.

Hang In There!!
Jana