Mama FM
Growing up: Children speak out on body changes, personal hygiene and the challenges of adolescence
9 November 2026, 3:25 pm
Cathrine Apalat, Mazirwe Grace & Byamukama Alozious
As children grow into adolescence, they experience physical, emotional and psychological changes that can sometimes leave them confused, embarrassed or afraid to speak out.
During Mama FM’s Children talk programme hosted by Robina Nanfuka, on 8th Nov. 2026 from 11am -1:00pm, children shared their experiences and concerns about growing up, including body changes, menstruation, stigma, mental health and cultural practices that sometimes leave adolescents without adequate guidance.
The discussion, held under the theme “Adolescent Growth and Development and Stigma on Mental Health,” provided children with a platform to ask questions, share their experiences and demystify myth associated with body changes and growth.
In the same discussion, retired Nursing Officer Mukono, Peragia Ssentongo Nalongo, urged parents and caregivers to make time for their children, initiate open conversations about adolescence and listen to their concerns without judgement. She emphasized the importance of guiding and supporting children through the different stages of growth.
The programme is part of Mama FM’s commitment to amplifying children’s voices and promoting access to accurate, age-appropriate information on health, personal hygiene and adolescent development, in partnership with UNESCO-Uganda (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). Listen to the programme and learn more here