Puberty can be a strange and stretchy time - for both tweens and their parents.
Bodies are changing, moods are shifting, and everyone’s trying to find their new normal.
One of the biggest milestones in that journey is getting a first period.
And while it might feel awkward to talk about at first (especially if you never had the same chat growing up), open and honest conversations can make all the difference.
Because the truth is - periods aren’t just about biology.
They’re about confidence, understanding, and learning to feel at home in your body.
Start with warmth, not a script
There’s no perfect way to start the conversation - but your tone matters more than your words.
Try to stay calm, open, and curious.
You could begin with something like:
“You might start noticing some changes in your body soon, and I thought it might be good to talk about what that means - especially periods. What do you already know about them?”
This gives your tween space to lead, so you can fill in any gaps and gently correct myths.
And it sends an even more important message: you’re a safe person to ask.
Keep it simple, honest, and kind
You don’t need a biology textbook.
A simple explanation might be:
“Getting your period is a natural part of growing up. It’s your body’s way of getting ready for the possibility of having a baby one day. It happens about once a month and looks different for everyone.”
Explain that the first few cycles might be light or irregular - and that’s completely normal.
Encourage questions like:
-
“Will it hurt?”
-
“How long does it last?”
-
“When will it start?”
Answer honestly and reassuringly.
You don’t need to have all the answers, just the openness to explore them together.
Turn shopping into empowerment
A great way to make the topic more practical (and less abstract) is to explore period products together.
Period pants can be a brilliant starting point - comfortable, reusable, and simple to use.
Let your tween see what’s out there, ask questions, and maybe even choose what feels right.
The goal isn’t just to prepare her, but to give her ownership over her body and choices.
Share your story
If it feels right, tell her about your own first period.
What helped, what didn’t, what you wish you’d known.
Personal stories make periods feel less mysterious and more universal - something women and girls have been navigating for generations.
You could even share stories from friends or siblings to show just how different everyone’s experience can be.
Keep the conversation going
The first chat shouldn’t be the last.
Revisit the topic now and again, especially as she gets older and her body changes.
Encourage her to come to you with questions, worries, or even period “wins” (like getting through a sports day without stress).
The more you talk about it, the more normal it becomes - and that’s exactly the point.
Because when we talk about periods openly, we don’t just raise confident girls.
We raise a generation who know that periods are nothing to hide, hush, or feel ashamed of.
DAME tip:
If you’re preparing for this chat, try reading our Period Positive Guide for Teens together, or explore our range of period pants designed for comfort and confidence — no awkward wrappers, no leaks, no shame.
