Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Puberty Explained: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and How Parents Can Help

Puberty is an awkward chapter of life, full of questions for kids and their parents. So, when should the conversation start? And what should parents actually expect?

On this episode of On Call, Off Script, a Jackson Health System podcast, we’re breaking down puberty from both the medical and mental health perspectives. Our experts explain when puberty typically starts, the physical changes parents should expect, why emotions can feel intense, and how puberty can affect confidence, friendships, and social relationships.

Most importantly, parents need to know why they shouldn’t wait for puberty to start talking about it with their kids. Early, age-appropriate conversations can help kids understand their changing bodies, ask questions, and feel more confident navigating this awkward – and completely normal – stage of growing up.

Three professionals, two women and a man, standing next to each other. Behind them it says on call off script with Dr. Tobenna Ubu, and Dr. Natasha Poulopoulos

Meet the Guests

Tobenna Ubu, MD

Internal Medicine, Pediatrics

English, Spanish

Tobenna Ubu is an internal medicine and pediatric-trained primary care physician who cares for patients across the lifespan, from children through adults. He mainly sees patients at UHealth – University of Miami Health System Palmetto Bay, but also provides inpatient care at Holtz Children’s Hospital. Dr. Ubu’s approach to puberty goes beyond explaining physical changes; he ensures young people understand what’s happening to their bodies and gives them the confidence to ask questions and advocate for themselves.

Jackson Memorial Hospital

1611 NW 12TH AVENUE ROOM 600-D, MIAMI, FL 33136

(305)585-5215

Natasha Poulopoulos, PhD

Clinical Psychology, Psychology

English, Greek

Natasha Poulopoulos is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in pediatrics at Holtz Children’s Hospital and Miami Transplant Institute. Much of her work is focused on children who are medically hospitalized and could benefit from psychological care. Dr. Poulopoulos brings a particular focus to the “inside” of puberty, like the changes happening in emotions, self-esteem, identity, social relationships, and the developing brain. She emphasizes normalizing these experiences, while also helping parents recognize when something isn’t normal.

Natasha Poulopoulos

1695 NW 9TH AVENUE MIAMI, FL 33136

(305)355-8094

Meet the Host

A headshot of a woman, she smiles at the camera, she has dark hair and a dark top

Ruelle Champion

Media Relations & Branded Content Specialist for Jackson Health System

Ruelle Champion joined the team in 2023, coming from a journalism background as an anchor and reporter in Gainesville, FL. Ruelle is also a proud graduate of Florida A&M University and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Ruelle Champion joined the team in 2023, coming from a journalism background as an anchor and reporter in Gainesville, FL. Ruelle is also a proud graduate of Florida A&M University and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

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