As-salamu alaykum sister,
Thank you for writing to our live session.  Regarding your daughter, as she is 11 years old I would kindly suggest you begin talking with her now.  In fact, she may have already started the process of puberty a while ago as some children do begin early by developing pubic and under arm hair, breast buds, body odor, and even menses.  Many young girls have started menses at age 12, so their hormones have started awakening for some time prior to that!  Additionally, your daughter may be going through some bodily changes, but she may be too embarrassed to tell you.  This is common.  She also may be experiencing the awakening of sexual feelings, and may be confused by what she is feeling and the changes she sees in her body, however slight they may be.

As I am assuming your daughter is in school, I am quite sure she has heard some talk about puberty from her friends or others around her.  Therefore the information and conversation about puberty is best coming from you, her mom, as you do not want her to get mis-information, or feel abnormal about what changes are coming very soon, or those that have already appeared.

Some parents feel uncomfortable discussing puberty.  I kindly suggest that you look at this as an opportunity to be a part of her growth and development so she will feel she can talk to you about anything.  It will insha’Allah bring you both to a new level of closeness and bonding.  At a turmoilous time such as puberty, your daughter will feel safe and secure she has a mom like you to talk to insha’Allah.  We wish you both the best during this new stage of growth in both of your lives!