Autism and Puberty: Preparing Your Child for Adolescence

A comprehensive guide for parents on supporting autistic children through puberty, including physical changes, emotional development, hygiene, relationships, and safety.

Illustration of a teenager looking at a growth chart, representing autism and puberty
BZ
Buzz ABA Clinical Team
•Published: December 6, 2025

Puberty is a big change. Autistic teens face unique challenges. Autism Speaks says early preparation is key.

When to Start Preparing for Puberty

Start early. Ideally 1-2 years before changes start. This gives them time to adjust.

Signs Puberty May Be Approaching

  • Growth spurts and changes in body shape
  • Body odor changes requiring new hygiene routines
  • Mood fluctuations and emotional intensity
  • Increased awareness of peers and social dynamics
  • Early breast development or testicular growth
  • Changes in skin (acne)

Teaching About Physical Changes

Key Topics to Cover

  • Body parts and their functions using accurate terminology
  • What physical changes to expect and when
  • Why bodies change (hormones, growing up)
  • That everyone's body is different
  • Menstruation for those who will experience it
  • Erections and wet dreams for those who will experience them

Building Hygiene Routines

Hygiene Skills to Develop

  • Daily showering or bathing with appropriate products
  • Using deodorant consistently and correctly
  • Facial care for acne prevention and treatment
  • Proper handwashing, especially after bathroom use
  • Menstrual product use and changing schedules
  • Wearing clean clothes daily

Managing Emotional Changes

Emotional Support Strategies

  • Teach recognition and naming of emotions
  • Develop a toolkit of calming strategies
  • Create safe spaces for emotional regulation
  • Maintain predictable routines when possible
  • Normalize that emotional changes are part of puberty
  • Monitor for signs of depression or anxiety

Social Relationships and Boundaries

Important Social Topics

  • Public vs. private behaviors and body parts
  • Personal space and physical boundaries
  • Understanding and giving consent
  • Recognizing appropriate vs. inappropriate touch
  • Navigating changing friendships
  • Online safety and appropriate online behavior

Expert Insight from Jennifer Harbour, M.S., BCBA

"Puberty is tough. Autistic teens need extra support," says Jennifer Harbour, Clinical Director at Buzz ABA. "Use visuals. Practice routines. Start early. It makes a difference."

Start Your Child's Journey Today

Buzz ABA provides comprehensive, evidence-based ABA therapy in Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and surrounding NH communities. Our neurodiversity-affirming approach helps children thrive.

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Related Resources

Empowering Teens with ABA

Building independence and social skills.

Daily Living Skills

Building independence in daily tasks.

Social Skills Development

Building meaningful connections.

Autism in Girls

Understanding unique challenges for girls.

Puberty Workbook

Download our free preparation guide.

About Buzz ABA Therapy in New Hampshire

Buzz ABA is a leading provider of evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy services throughout New Hampshire. Founded by parents who understand the journey of raising a child with autism, our mission is to provide compassionate, family-centered care that empowers children to reach their full potential.

Our team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) specializes in early intervention, social skills development, and managing challenging behaviors. We believe in a neurodiversity-affirming approach that respects each child's unique personality while teaching functional skills that improve quality of life and independence.

Serving Families Across the Granite State

We bring expert ABA therapy directly to your community. Our in-home and community-based programs are available in major compassionate hubs including:

Concord, NHManchester, NHNashua, NHDerry, NHDover, NHRochester, NHSalem, NHLondonderry, NH

Why We Prioritize Evidence-Based Treatment

At Buzz ABA, we strictly adhere to updated scientific research. Whether it's Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI), Natural Environment Teaching (NET), or Pivotal Response Training (PRT), our methodologies are rooted in decades of clinical proof. We focus on "generalization"—ensuring the skills your child learns in therapy transfer seamlessly to school, home, and social settings. This commitment to data-driven progress is why families trust us for their autism support journey.

Next Steps for Your Family

If you have questions about your child's development or want to learn more about our intake process, our clinical team is ready to help.

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