Answer: Many tween girls worry about when their first period will begin. Will it be while they’re at school, camp, or even a friend’s sleepover? The unknown can be scary to a tween whose never had to deal with menstruation before. But you can help prepare your daughter for the unexpected, and ease her anxieties.For starters, it’s important that you talk with your daughter about what to expect when her period begins. Explain some of the common changes a girl might experience before her first period starts such as cramps, headaches, a lack of energy, a feeling of wetness on her underpants, etc. Also, take the time to show her how to properly use a pad, so that if you’re not there, she’ll know what to do.Explain to your child that if she thinks her first period has arrived, she needs to ask for permission to go to the girls bathroom to check. (It’s a good idea for all tween girls to keep a pad in their book bags, just in case. A small pad can easily fit into a change purse, or a small handbag.) If your daughter doesn’t have a pad, instruct her to go the school nurse right away. The nurse will be able to provide her with one. Some schools have sanitary napkin machines in the rest rooms, but don’t rely on them. They don’t always work, and may not be stocked. (more…)

Puberty can be a confusing time for a tween, and for parents. As a child changes, so does his mood, body, interests, and even family dynamics can change. Here’s what parents should know before their child hits puberty. And don’t worry, talking with your tween about puberty doesn’t have to be uncomfortable, as long as you’re prepared.