The Teenage Body – Growth at Full Speed

Adolescence is one of the fastest periods of physical growth since infancy.

Bones lengthen, muscles develop, voices change, skin changes, and internal systems recalibrate—often at different speeds. A teen’s hands and feet may grow before the rest of their body catches up, coordination can feel off, and clothes that fit last month suddenly don’t.

This can leave teenagers feeling awkward, embarrassed, or overly self-conscious.

All of this growth places huge demands on the body. Teenagers need more calories, more nutrients, and significantly more sleep, yet their lives are often packed with school, homework, sport, work, and social commitments. When their bodies can’t keep up, it often shows up as irritability, withdrawal, or seeming “lazy” rather than as obvious physical tiredness.

Parents may notice their teen snapping over small things, spending long periods in their room, or struggling to get going in the morning. These behaviours are often interpreted as attitude problems, when they are actually signs of a body under strain.

Parent tip: When your teenager is short-tempered or disengaged, check the basics before addressing behaviour. Try saying, “You seem exhausted—have you eaten or rested today?”

Supporting physical needs first can reduce conflict and open the door to better conversations.