Make sure she’s got supplies, a cute pouch or whatever to store period supplies in her backpack, and some period underwear. Go out for a coffee or something she’d think was a little “sophisticated” somewhere nice like the rooftop of the W. But be low-key about it.

My (female) friends and I took her out for dessert- after asking if she'd like that. We also did this for my friends' daughters but only for the ones that wanted to. We didn't dwell on the details of the period or anything just enjoyed a celebratory time out together.

Just ask her what she needs. Mention pads, liners, tampons, and cute storage bags. Make it feel very normal.

I would have HATED if my mom did this. Please don’t, OP

Just normalize it and teach her how to manage it.

my mom is completely socially awkward and never wanted to talk about anything and she got me a cake for my first period- which actually wasn't my first because she didn't understand what I was saying when I has it the first time. It was totally weird but so on brand for her. Of course, she never talked about it again.

so weird. just acknowledge that almost every female has a period and while it kind of stinks- it is normal. be available to answer questions.

Does she want to celebrate?
I have and still do hate my period it's a week that absolutely sucks and no amount of positive spin will change that.


It's absolutely 100% ok to not like your period and not want a celebration about.

Now maybe she does want to celebrate it. If so if maybe do a little basket with all her favorite treats and some comfort items.

Are you serious?

Take her out for a nice dinner.

I’d rather it be celebrated than shamed. When I got my period, my mom cried! Ugh. I still can’t forget the feeling that I did something wrong.

When my daughter got her period we went out for a smoothie. Not exactly a celebration, but just some positive association with it.

If it helps, girls these days have much less shame about talking about their period. I feel like my friends and I never discussed it and I was mortified if I had to whisper as someone to borrow a pad in HS. My teen dd says they talk about it all the time and have no qualms about asking for tampons in public. This will help your dd feel neutral about it.

Anonymous wrote:I’m confused. DD got “their” first period, not “her” first period? I don’t know where they are in their transition journey, but I’d say following their lead is the best approach, as well as being respectful.

This.

Celebrate or commiserate?

How sbout don’t?