Practical Strategies for Supporting Autistic Girls Through Puberty: A Guide for Educators and Families

Puberty is a pivotal stage of development, marking the transition from childhood to adulthood. While this period can be challenging for all adolescents, autistic girls often face additional difficulties related to sensory sensitivities, social communication differences, and emotional regulation. Despite these challenges, puberty-specific concerns for autistic adolescents are frequently overlooked, leaving gaps in the support available to them. Addressing these needs with structured, evidence-based strategies can help autistic girls navigate puberty with greater confidence and autonomy. This article equips educators and families with practical approaches on how to support autistic girls through this transition, focusing on sensory accommodations, emotional regulation techniques, and the development of essential self-care routines.