Girls Vs Puberty

It doesn’t matter if we are ready to answer the questions our young ladies have, they will keep coming. Relying on schools to teach our children everything they need to know about their bodies, peer pressure, bullying, and sex is just not realistic. While some things may be discussed in school, not everything is. Furthermore, children are typically uncomfortable when it comes to asking personal questions in front of their peers.

Gossip and rumors will be the biggest enemy you will battle during the school years. There is no secret way to stop this from occurring, and often girls are much meaner than boys when it comes to “flaws”. Aside from classmates’ developments, advertisements everywhere will have our children questioning what is happening, or perhaps not happening, to their bodies. It is your job as the caregiver to help sort out all these confusing matters.

The beginning of puberty in females can start as early as eight years old. Yes, you read that correct, eight years old. Parents are allowing their daughters to wear training bras this young, and it is hard to swallow. You might be wondering why they would need a bra so early? They can’t possibly have anything to contain yet, can they? Well, unfortunately the answer is yes. Your daughter may begin to blossom, and taking her to get her first training bra is a special time. Alternatively, there is nothing wrong with opting for a sports bra, or even a camisole for underneath the young lady’s shirt. Keep in mind, the time will come when they need or simply request an upgrade. When that time comes, there are store associates who can assist your child to assure they get the right size bra. It is important that the correct size be purchased to help avoid back pains, and stretch marks.

As if the bras weren’t enough, many girls want to begin to shave at a young age. They are suddenly embarrassed by the leg hairs that once meant nothing to them. You may be able to push this off for a couple of years; however, eventually all parents budge on this issue. After all, no one wants their child teased for being different. When teaching your child to shave, be sure to provide them with a shaving cream or gel that does not contain alcohol. The cream/gel will help the child avoid cutting themselves or irritating the skin. Be sure to inform the child it is best to shave in the shower, as it will help to avoid cuts. As well, you should inform them to shave in the direction of the hair growth. Should a cut occur, an antiseptic styptic pencil can be used to stop the bleeding instantly. Finally, do not forget to stress the importance of changing the razor regularly. Using a dull razor can not only irritate or cut your child’s skin, it can also lead to an infection. If you are still nervous about letting your child shave, an electric razor for girls may be worth considering.

Now it is time to discuss the rite of passage. Some girls may be anxious for their first period, while others are deathly afraid. The fear mainly stems from the possibility of it occurring at school, a public place, or worse yet… in front of their crush. Menstruation typically occurs sometime between the ages of ten and fifteen. That said, a good time to bring up the subject is when the breasts begin to develop. Consider it a warning sign to caregivers that more changes are coming soon. It is important to discuss what your child will experience prior to it happening. There is no need to be graphic or go into too much detail in the first talk; however, it is a good idea to lightly explain what will occur. Inform the child that before their period first occurs, they may experience a discharge in their underwear. This can occur up to six months before the first period. When this happens, or even before, you should consider allowing your child to carry a few sanitary pads in their backpack. Be sure to mention that it is a natural thing that every girl goes through to become a woman, and that they will not die from bleeding too much down there. Furthermore, inform the child that cramps are the body’s way of helping push the blood out, and that it is normal to experience a variety of moods.

In today’s world makeup, bras, tampons, pads, and so much more are being questioned about sooner than ever. Preparing yourself for this time, along with the questions is really the only way to get through it all. While it may be hard to comprehend how your little girl is changing so quickly, you should be proud. Be proud of the young woman she is becoming. Be thankful that your little one has grown to be so independent. Finally, be appreciative that you are the one she is coming to for these important questions in life.

Felicia Ainslie, Guest Writer

Felicia has worked in a variety of fields, and has enjoyed writing since she was a small girl. As a mother of three children, one boy and two girls, she understands that parenting can be confusing, and even overwhelming at times. Reading numerous books, articles, and more has encouraged Felicia to share her personal experiences regarding both the exciting moments of parenting, as well as the hardships.

Felicia can be contacted regarding her writing services via her Simbi profile.