While it’s a significant and potentially scary milestone, being informed and supportive can make all the difference. Here’s how dads and male guardians can play an essential role in this journey.

Why your role matters

Traditionally, discussions about periods have been left to mothers or female guardians. However, as a dad, you have an opportunity to foster trust and open communication. Showing that you’re knowledgeable and supportive helps your child feel safe and confident about this natural part of growing up.

Understanding period basics

In Australia, the average age for a first period is around 11 to 12 years old, though it can occur as early as six. Preparing early ensures your child won’t be caught off guard. Start by learning about menstruation yourself. You might be wondering how to explain menstruation to a 9 year old, or how to explain periods to a child. Not sure if you know all the answers? Check out Jean Hailes ‘All you need to know about periods’.

Preparing for the first period

Periods are unpredictable at such a young age and you’re being counted on you to save your little person at what can be an awkward time, such as out in public. Until she’s got it all figured out, it never hurts to be prepared. 

Have a period kit ready which you can have ready before periods start to help prepare for it. This should include all the products she will need. Some people purchase period underwear for their kids to have in their school bag or in the car, so it’s less daunting. Others opt to keep a variety of different stock of pads (regular, super, overnight etc) some tampons and other environmentally friendly options such as reusable pads or a small menstrual cup. 

1. Start the conversation early
   • Normalise the topic by talking about it openly.
   • Explain what periods are, why they happen, and what to expect.
   • Use simple language tailored to their age.
2. Create a period kit
   • Include essentials like pads (regular, super, overnight), tampons, or reusable options such as period underwear or menstrual cups.
   • Add extras like wipes, a small bag for discreet storage, and a change of underwear.
   • Keep kits in accessible places like their school bag, your car, or at home.
   • Be sure to have secure bins available in all rooms with a toilet and laundry buckets for reusable items handy! There’s nothing worse than the panic felt when not wanting to put your items out in public. We have a handy guide to washing reusable period items too.
   • There is a range of companies that create period kits for first-time periods, check them out on The Red Pages.
3. Recognise the signs
   • Watch for signs like abdominal pain, mood swings, and the development of pubic hair. These may indicate their first period is near.

How to talk about menstrual products

It’s crucial to explain how to use menstrual products:

• Demonstrate how to open and apply a pad or tampon.
• Discuss how often they should be changed (every 4-8 hours).
• Address any concerns about reusable items, and teach them how to clean these properly.
• Highlight that trying different products is okay to find what works best.

Be a source of reassurance

Your child might feel embarrassed or nervous about discussing periods. Stay calm and patient:

• Reassure them that it’s a normal part of growing up.
• Celebrate the milestone to make it a positive experience.
• Be available for questions and ready to provide honest, straightforward answers.

Practical tips for ongoing support

1. Stay stocked up
   • Keep a variety of menstrual products at home.
   • Regularly check if they need refills or new products to try.
2. Lead with positivity
   • Frame periods as a natural and empowering aspect of life.
   • Encourage open communication to address any concerns or questions.

The bigger picture

Supporting your child through their first period is about more than providing products; it’s about building trust and confidence. By being prepared and open, you can make this life-changing milestone less intimidating and more empowering for the girls in your life. You can even celebrate this milestone too, be the change the world needs!

Books

Check out our list of our favourite books, fiction and non-fiction, by Australian authors on all things periods.

Social media

There’s a range of people on social media that talk about periods in all forms, for all age ranges. Check out social accounts to follow suitable for children on The Red Pages.