Navigating puberty can feel overwhelming for kids and parents alike. That’s exactly why Dr. Lisa Klein, pediatrician and co-founder of Turning Teen, set out to create a more open, empowering way to approach it. In this Q&A, Lisa shares what inspired her to start Turning Teen, how to make sensitive conversations feel more natural, and her tips for parents raising tweens in today’s world.

1. What inspired you to create Turning Teen?

When my oldest child and his friends started going through puberty, I found myself looking not just as a mom, but also as a pediatrician, for resources to help us all navigate this big transition. I was surprised to realize how few practical, relatable tools were out there to support families during this stage. There are so many resources for parents these days, but when it came to puberty, there was a real gap. That’s what sparked the idea for Turning Teen: to create something that could make these conversations easier, more comfortable, and more informed for both kids and their parents.

 

2. How has your background in adolescent medicine influenced your work?

As a pediatrician, I’ve always understood the medical side of puberty—the anatomy, the physiology, all of it. But when it came to actually explaining those changes to kids and parents in a way that was clear, relatable, and not awkward, that took time to develop. When we started Turning Teen, we focused on creating a comfortable, engaging way to talk about puberty that really resonated with families. Over time, that approach has become something truly special. Every doctor who’s joined Turning Teen has said the same thing: it’s made them a better pediatrician. Being able to talk about puberty with ease and excitement has completely transformed how we support our patients and clients during this important stage.

3. What topics do you feel are most important to cover as it relates to puberty with tweens today?

While I believe all aspects of puberty education are important, the two that stand out the most to me are body literacy and body safety. So what does that really mean? It’s about helping kids understand their anatomy, know which parts are considered private, and most importantly, empowering them to understand that they are in charge of their own bodies. When kids have that knowledge and confidence, it lays the foundation for safety, self-respect, and healthy boundaries.

4. How do you keep sensitive topics age-appropriate and empowering?

When you’re bringing up sensitive topics that aren’t part of everyday conversation, it’s really important to start by explaining why you’re having the conversation in the first place. That helps set the tone and establish some ground rules. Kids need to know that learning about their bodies from a trusted adult - whether that’s a parent, doctor, or teacher - is not only okay, it’s important. These conversations should be safe, respectful, and never secretive. And it’s helpful to remind both yourself and your child: this is science. We’re talking about anatomy and how the body works—these are facts, and when shared in an age-appropriate way, they empower rather than overwhelm.

5. How can parents feel more confident when talking to their children about these sensitive topics?

The key to helping parents feel more confident talking about puberty, and other so-called “awkward” topics, is preparation. First, take a deep breath and work through your own discomfort. Kids, especially younger ones, see these conversations as science, not as emotional, sexual, or romantic. Just approach the topic factually and calmly. Set the tone that you are comfortable talking about anything, and that you want to be their trusted source of information, not the school lunch table or the internet. It might take a little practice (yes, even in the mirror or with another mom friend), but you can absolutely do this. Being open and prepared goes a long way.

6. Can you share a few conversation starters that parents can use to create a dialogue and conversations with their tweens? 

There are so many natural, everyday opportunities for parents to start conversations with their kids about puberty, body changes, and related topics - it’s all about being open and looking for moments around you. Here are some simple, effective conversation starters:

1. Use what’s happening around them: “Around this age, a lot of kids start going through body changes. Have you noticed that with any of your classmates? Do you have any questions about it?” This can be a gentle, non-threatening way to start the dialogue.

2. Media moments matter: Whether you're watching a TV show or flipping through a magazine, the media often presents chances to talk. Maybe it's a discussion about body image and the impact of photoshopping, or a dating scenario in a show that opens the door to talk about healthy relationships and consent.

3. Everyday errands can be teaching moments: A trip to the store is a great chance to walk down the menstrual product aisle and casually ask, “Do you know what all of this is for?” It can be a great starting point for a conversation about periods and body changes.

4. Keep it simple and direct: Sometimes, just saying “I’m here for you if you ever have any questions about your body or anything you're going through” is the most powerful conversation starter of all.

The key is to stay open, curious, and nonjudgmental - your child will notice, and it will help keep the lines of communication strong.

7. What advice do you have for parents on when to begin having these discussions? 

Start these conversations early. Building a strong foundation can start as early as they can talk. When you're teaching little ones the names of their body parts, include the correct terms for their genitals, too. It’s never too early, and never too late, to begin. Whether your child is just learning to talk or already entering adolescence, what matters most is creating a safe, open space for honest conversations about their bodies and development.

8. How do you hope Turning Teen continues to help kids, especially young girls, during these years?

I hope Turning Teen continues to grow and reach even more kids and families, empowering them with essential knowledge about their bodies, both physically and mentally. It’s a true privilege to provide lifelong education that helps tweens navigate development with confidence, free from fear, shame, or worry.

9. What’s next for Turning Teen?

I have so many exciting goals for Turning Teen. One of my favorite parts of this work is visiting schools to teach puberty and sexual health, as it’s such an important and often challenging topic, and I’m grateful we can support schools through it. We are always looking to connect with more schools that can benefit from our curriculum. Turning Teen is also expanding into new cities, including Chicago, Kansas City, and more that are currently in the works. In addition, we have some exciting partnerships on the horizon that will bring even more learning opportunities. We're always eager to collaborate with like-minded businesses that share our mission to educate and empower tweens and teens.

10. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to parents about puberty talks?

You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to know all the answers. Just be truthful and be resourceful!

 

From body safety to confident communication, Dr. Lisa Klein reminds us that puberty doesn’t have to be scary or awkward. With the right tools and a little preparation, these conversations can be honest, helpful, and even empowering. To learn more or explore Turning Teen’s resources and programs, head to turningteen.com.