For Boys Only: The Challenges of Growing Up
Class description
This two-part class is recommended for boys 10 to 12 years old and a parent or guardian. The sessions focus on what both the child and parent should expect as boys begin adolescence. The class is two hours in length on two separate days.
Topics include: body changes during puberty, popular myths about growing up, behavior and attitude changes, what boys need to know about girls and how to communicate about the experience of adolescence.
For a list of helpful references and Web sites, please view our Book Guide for Pre-Teens (PDF 223KB).
For more information on course topics, please see the Boys Only Course Outline (PDF 31KB).
For additional class details, please see the class flyer (PDF 36KB).
Schedule
Dates: Sessions I & II – View dates and room location
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on each day
Fee
$50 per parent/son pair; $10 per additional child
Location
Children's Hospital – Main Hospital
Register
Frequently asked questions
My child is younger than the recommended age of 10. Can they take the class?
The recommended age for the class is 10 to 12 years. However, we will gladly register a 9- to 13-year-old child for the class if their parents believe the child is developmentally ready for the class. To register children younger than 10 or older than 12, please call the Great Starts program registration line at (206) 789-2306. The online registration system will not accept ages outside the 10 to 12 range.
Can mothers attend the boys' class? Can fathers attend the girls' class?
Yes. The goal of our class is to promote communication between children and their parents and trusted adults. When possible, we recommend a same-sex adult — parent, guardian, close friend or family member — to accompany the pre-teen.
Can both parents attend the class? Is there a fee for two adults to attend?
We encourage only one adult to accompany a child. It is ideal to keep the adult-child ratio as even as possible to provide a relaxed, interactive session and to support open conversation. If a second adult is necessary, there is an additional $10 fee.
Can I take multiple siblings to one class?
Yes. The class is $50 for each child-parent pair and $10 additional for each additional same-sex child 10 to 12 years old. Because the class offers an opportunity to learn and discuss things together, some families have told us they wish they had brought each of their children separately. We invite each family to choose what works best for them.
If I have multiple siblings who want to take one class, do I have to register each child separately?
You only have to complete one registration. During the registration process, there will be a place to add additional sibling names and a box to check which will add $10 to the class fee per additional child.
I want to sign up a whole group of students (like a scout troop). How do I do that?
We encourage each family to sign up individually. The class is designed to promote the parent-child relationship rather than a group experience, and we ask children and the adult they came with to sit together. To inquire about signing up a small group, please call the Great Starts program registration line at (206) 789-2306.
If I attend week one of the class and then have to miss week two, can I make up the second class at a later date?
Yes. It is ideal to attend both classes in the series. If you find you can't attend the second class, you are welcome to attend any future class two on the schedule. Simply review the class schedule, select the week two class that is best for your family and then call the registration line at (206) 789-2306 to notify us of your selection. We will let the teacher know to expect you.
How can I know if this class is a good match for my child with special needs?
Please give the Great Starts program a call at (206) 789-2306 and we will connect you with an instructor to discuss the special needs of your child and the class format and content. If you or your child needs a special listening device or sign language interpretation, we are happy to arrange these ahead of time.
I have general questions about classes at Children's.
Please visit frequently asked questions.