All right, so when will you start (or stop) growing? That depends on your own genetic time clock. One way to get a peek at the "time" is to ask your parents and your family members (aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins) when they started growing. Chances are, your clock would be set to a somewhat similar time. If they shot up like a rocket at age 13, you might, too.

Boys and girls are different. Surprised? Girls often start their growth spurt early in their teen years, sooner than boys. For girls, it might last about three years. Boys usually start their growth spurt a little later, mostly towards the middle of their teen years. Then they grow for four to six years.

Like your height, your body type is determined by your genes. Some people have a smaller bone structure; others have a larger body frame. That's another way each person is different. Again, the best way to get a hint at your own body type is to look at your parents and other relatives and find out what they were like at your age. Hard to imagine, but your parents were kids once like you and your friends, they came in all sorts of shapes and sizes. It's important to remember that as you get older your body will continue to change. It's all right. It's supposed to be that way.

Only You

There's no one perfect body size. Honest! So don't waste your time trying to look like someone you're not. In fact, it's silly to compare yourself to fashion models, popular athletes, movie stars, or even your best friend. Be yourself. Be proud and happy with who you are. You're unique, and that's what is so great!




Hey Mom! Hey Dad! One way to get an idea of what size might be right for you is to look at photos of other family members when they were your age. Ask them when they started their growth spurt. How tall were they? How did they feel as their bodies changed?