Supporting health and wellness for preteen and teen girls
While girlhood doesn’t have a defined timeline, the preteen and teen years (ages 11 to 17) are a big part of it. These years often bring a lot of physical and emotional change. Learning more about what your child is experiencing during this time of rapid development can help you support their health and well-being in the ways they need.
Prioritizing mental health
Protecting your child’s mental health may be one of the most important things you can do. Find support for navigating mental health challenges and view tips for supporting healthy behaviors.
Need help starting the conversation with your teen?
Starting mental health conversations with honesty and empathy may encourage your child to open up. Try these conversation starters — it may make it easier to connect with your teen and talk about what matters.
Promoting physical health and body positivity
In addition to mental health, it’s important to support your child’s physical health. View ideas to help encourage your child — and your whole family — to focus on healthy eating and staying active.
Prep for your child’s annual checkup
Regular well child visits are just as important in the preteen and teen years as they were in your child’s early years. Learn more about preventive care and what to expect at a wellness exam. Plus, get a checklist to help you prepare for your visit.
Explore Minnesota's past through exhibits that feature authentic historical objects, hands-on experiences, and multimedia presentations.
Girlhood (It’s complicated) was created by the National Museum of American History and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service. The exhibition is supported by the Smithsonian’s American Women’s History Initiative, a program of the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum.