How to Prepare Your Tween for Her First Period

How to Prepare Your Tween for Her First Period 

As a parent, one of the most important things we can do for our children is to prepare them for the changes they will experience as they grow up. One of these changes for girls is their first period, also known as menarche. It is a natural and normal part of a girl’s development, but it can be a daunting and confusing experience for both the girl and her parents. Therefore, it is crucial to have open and honest conversations with your tween about menstruation to help her understand and prepare for this milestone. Here are some tips on how to prepare your tween for her first period.

1. Educate Her About Menstruation

The first step in preparing your tween for her first period is to educate her about menstruation. Most girls get their first period between the ages of 11-14, but it can vary from person to person. Start the conversation early, around the age of 9 or 10, so your tween has time to process and understand the changes that will happen to her body. Use simple and age-appropriate language to explain what menstruation is, why it happens, and what to expect during her period. You can also use books, videos, or online resources that are specifically designed for tweens to help them understand better.

2. Discuss Personal Hygiene

With the onset of menstruation comes the need for proper personal hygiene. Explain to your tween the importance of keeping herself clean during her period. Talk about how often she needs to change her pad or tampon, how to properly dispose of used products, and the importance of washing her hands before and after changing. You can also introduce her to different types of menstrual products and let her decide which one she is most comfortable using.

3. De-Stigmatize Periods

Unfortunately, there is still a lot of stigma attached to periods in our society. As a result, many girls may feel embarrassed or ashamed when they get their first period. As a parent, it is crucial to de-stigmatize periods and normalize them. Talk to your tween about how menstruation is a normal and healthy process that all girls go through. Share your own experiences and let her know that she can come to you with any questions or concerns without feeling judged.

4. Prepare a Period Kit

To help your tween feel more prepared for her first period, put together a period kit for her. This could include pads, tampons, menstrual cup, panty liners, wet wipes, and spare underwear. Keep the kit in her school bag, so she always has access to it when needed. You can also include a small pouch for her to discreetly carry used products back home if necessary.

5. Discuss Period Symptoms

Along with the physical changes, your tween may also experience some emotional and physical symptoms during her period. These may include cramps, mood swings, bloating, and headaches. Talk to your tween about these symptoms and let her know that they are normal and will pass. You can also suggest ways to manage these symptoms, such as using a heating pad for cramps or taking a warm bath for relaxation.

6. Talk About Period Accidents

Period accidents are bound to happen, especially in the beginning when your tween is still getting used to managing her period. It is essential to have an open and honest conversation about this with your tween. Let her know that it is completely normal and nothing to be ashamed of. You can also suggest keeping an extra pair of underwear or pants in her school bag just in case.

7. Teach Her How to Track Her Period

Tracking her period can help your tween become more familiar with her menstrual cycle and prepare for when her next period will come. Show her how to use a calendar or a period tracking app to keep track of her cycle. This will also come in handy when she is older and wants to plan activities or events around her period.

8. Involve Other Trusted Adults

It takes a village to raise a child, and this includes preparing your tween for her first period. If you are not comfortable having this conversation with your child, involve other trusted adults such as her aunt, grandmother, or older sibling. This can also be a great opportunity for them to bond and share their own experiences.

9. Be Prepared for Questions

As your tween learns about menstruation, she may have a lot of questions. It is essential to create a safe and open environment where she feels comfortable asking these questions without feeling judged or embarrassed. Be prepared to answer questions about the menstrual cycle, period products, and any other concerns she may have.

10. Celebrate This Milestone

Lastly, it is important to celebrate this milestone with your tween. Getting her first period marks an important stage in her development, and it should be celebrated. You can plan a special activity or get her a small gift to commemorate this moment. This will help your tween feel more positive and empowered about her period.

In conclusion, preparing your tween for her first period may seem like a daunting task, but it is an essential part of their development. By educating them about menstruation, normalizing periods, and providing support and guidance, you can help your tween feel more confident and prepared for this milestone. Remember to be patient and understanding throughout this process, as every girl’s experience with their first period is unique. With the right information and support, your tween can navigate this new phase in their life with ease.