Puberty can be confusing and uncomfortable when a girl reaches it without enough information. Parents can make the experience easier by talking about changes before they happen and treating menstruation and body development as ordinary parts of growing up.
1. Help her understand the menstrual cycle
Do more than explain how to use a pad or tampon. Talk in age-appropriate language about what the menstrual cycle is, why periods happen and the kinds of changes she may notice.
2. Answer body questions without shame
Children notice body hair, deodorant, menstrual products and other changes. Simple, honest answers help establish that bodies and periods are not embarrassing topics.
Normalising menstruation before a girl's first period can make the experience less frightening when it arrives.
3. Get comfortable talking about menstruation
If adults treat menstrual products and periods as secrets, children quickly learn that the subject is something to hide. Parents do not need to share every private detail, but matter-of-fact language can make questions easier to ask.
Fathers and other caregivers can be part of these conversations too.
4. Remember that parents are changing too
A daughter's puberty may coincide with hormonal or life changes for her parents. Patience and empathy matter on both sides.
5. Provide the practical necessities before she needs them
A shy child may find it difficult to ask for deodorant, menstrual products or a first bra. Providing appropriate options in advance, and explaining how to use them, can remove unnecessary embarrassment.
The goal is not to make puberty perfect. It is to make sure a girl does not have to navigate normal changes without information, supplies or someone safe to ask.
— Daughters of India