Dear okieboomer,

Yes, that's normal! Girls usually start puberty anywhere between eight and 14 years old, and guys usually start anywhere between 10 and 17 years old.

Puberty doesn't happen all at once — it happens in stages. So a girl or guy may show some signs of puberty at an early age (like breasts beginning to grow or a voice that's starting to crack), but may not show other signs of puberty until she or he is much older (like getting a period or growing facial hair). It can take up to 20 years of age for all changes to take place. And how quickly you develop in your teen years doesn't necessarily affect how you'll look as an adult.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.