For many dads, talking about puberty and periods can feel unfamiliar, but your support can make a big difference. Open, honest conversations help your daughter feel confident, understood, and reassured that she can come to you with any question.
This guide offers practical tips for dads on talking about puberty and periods, along with general advice for raising daughters.
Don’t wait until her first period to initiate personal conversations. A key tip for fathers raising daughters is to start asking questions and actively listening from a young age. Just as you'd inquire about her school day, ask her about her feelings and experiences. Building this emotional connection early will make those important puberty and period conversations much easier when the time comes.
To confidently answer your daughter's questions, it's essential to educate yourself about puberty and the menstrual cycle.
Watch Our Menstrual Cycle & Periods Video: This short, informative video (less than 3 minutes) will equip you with the basic knowledge you need to address her questions.
Download Our Always Changing & Growing Up Parents' Guide: This comprehensive guide offers more in-depth information on puberty and periods.
Ensure your daughter has accurate information before she enters puberty. Begin discussing puberty and periods around the age of 7 or 8. If she's already showing early signs of puberty, it's definitely time to talk.
The First Signs of Puberty in Girls often include:
Avoid making "the talk" a single, overwhelming event. Instead, address the subject in easy stages to gradually build your daughter’s knowledge. Look for natural opportunities to talk, such as during a TV commercial, while watching a film, or when buying period products. Many fathers find it less uncomfortable to discuss periods in situations where direct eye contact isn't necessary, like in the car.
It's perfectly acceptable to admit when you don't know the answer to a question. [6] Promise to find the information she needs and follow through. You want her to feel comfortable coming to you, not think you're embarrassed or avoiding the topic.
When your daughter starts her first period, avoid making a huge fuss. A simple, reassuring statement like, "You may not want to talk to me about this now, but if you ever need anything, you only have to ask," can be incredibly impactful. She might roll her eyes, but these kind words demonstrate your support.
Girls can feel self-conscious about their periods. Beyond ensuring she has access to period products, provide a lidded trash can with a liner in the bathroom. This allows for discreet disposal of used products. Teach her the important motto: "Toss It – Don’t Flush It!" Flushing period products or other toiletries can cause plumbing blockages.
The array of period products can be overwhelming: pads (with or without wings, for day or night), tampons (with or without applicators, plastic or cardboard), period underwear, and menstrual cups.
Here’s what to consider when helping her choose:
More Resources for Puberty and Period Education
Watch this video to understand what actually happens during a period and share it with your daughter: Puberty and Period Education
Download our Always Changing & Growing Up booklet for more advice on puberty and periods:
