Talking to your children about period products

Normalise periods by making them visible. 

If you menstruate, let children see period products in your home. Whether it’s a box of pads in the bathroom or a menstrual cup drying on the shelf, visibility helps remove mystery and fear. When children see that periods are a normal part of life, they’re more likely to ask question and feel less anxious when they experience it themselves. 

This visibility is just as important for boys. Understanding what others go through helps build empathy, reduce stigma, and foster respectful relationships. 

If you’re unsure how to start the conversation, a book can be a great guide. Many of us didn’t grow up with open discussions about periods, so it’s okay to use resources that make things easier. 

Here are a few helpful books to consider: 

• Growing Up for Girls by Dr Emily McDonagh 
• My Period by Milli Hill
• The Autism-Friendly Guide to Periods by Robyn Steward

Why not consider borrowing a book from the library first to see whether the book is right for you and your child or buy a book second-hand.

Help your child feel prepared, not surprised. 

A first period kit is a thoughtful way to support your child. It could include: 

• a selection of period products (pads, period pants, etc.) 
• one of the books mentioned above 
• a small treat - like a chocolate bar or a comforting note 

Let your child explore the kit before their first period. They can touch the products, try them on (like period pants), and ask questions. Keep the kit somewhere accessible, like a drawer or wardrobe, so they can revisit it anytime.