Talking to your daughter about getting her period is awkward. She will probably be horrified and depressed at the news you are delivering. Not talking to her about it is even worse, though, obviously. They might cover it in middle school health class, but that seems a brutal place to learn about this.
Why not make a game out of it? You don't even have to make the game, because someone already did.
The Period Game makes it easy to sit down together and play, making this conversation more activity than lecture.
Spin the ovary.
$40
from
Uncommon Goods
To start the game, you spin the ovary in the middle of the board. It releases a marble with an action on it. "You got your period. Move ahead one space."
Moving around the board brings up — and explains — various topics about menstruation and women's reproductive health.
Move your piece.
$40
from
Uncommon Goods
When you move your piece, you have to pick up a tampon, a menstrual cup, a pad, or some other menstrual accessory. So by the time your daughter — or son or classroom — has made it all the way around the board, she will no longer be squeamish or shy about any of this.
Draw a card.
$40
from
Uncommon Goods
When you draw a card, it will explain some aspect of fertility, health, pregnancy prevention, or menstruation.
When you have played this game for a while, you will all know everything there is to know about getting, surviving, and staying healthy through menstruation.
You won't forget to tell her something important.
$40
from
Uncommon Goods
Because this game has been tested and iterated for years with kids, doctors, and teachers, you don't have to worry that you left out something important. Just open the box, play the game, be available to answer her questions, and don't get weird. This is the easy way to bring up this topic and make sure you cover all the issues — even things that have changed since you made your own pregnancy prevention or menstruation product choices.
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*Disclaimer: The advice on Cafemom is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
