In this feature documentary, director Hélène Choquette sheds light on the phenomenon of early-onset puberty in girls. Today, it isn't unusual to see the earliest signs of puberty in girls younger than the age of 9, though this was not the case a few decades ago. A number of causes are suspected: could obesity and exposure to environmental contaminants, for instance, be to blame? The physical, psychological and psychosocial repercussions on young girls results in a disconnect between their physical and emotional maturity. Far from being a marginal issue, early-onset puberty is fast becoming a worldwide public health concern. Little …
This film is an excellent jumping-off point to discuss puberty and adolescence. Your students can reflect on the problems that the girls in the film grapple with and also identify additional problems that young people face. What resources exist at school and in the community to help young people? Invite experts to come speak to your class.