Orientation season is here, and with it comes the excitement (and sometimes anxiety) of starting a new school year. New classrooms, new friends, new routines—it’s a fresh chapter full of opportunities. But as we prepare our children for this adventure with new uniforms, books, and supplies, there’s one area that too often gets overlooked: periods.
As Executive Director of HerFlow Foundation, I know that menstrual health is just as important as any other aspect of a child’s well-being. Going back to school means we need to ensure our girls—and the boys who share space with them—are prepared, supported, and empowered to manage periods with confidence and dignity.
For Caregivers: Setting Your Child Up for Success
Whether your child has already started menstruating or is still waiting for that first period, you play a critical role in preparing them. Here are some tips:
- Start the conversation early: Talk about periods openly and without shame. If your daughter hasn’t started yet, let her know it’s normal and nothing to be afraid of.
- Build a Period Kit: Pack a small pouch with pads (or reusable options), an extra underwear, and wipes. Slip it into her school bag so she’s always ready.
- Know the school’s support system: Does the school have a nurse’s office, bathroom supplies, or a teacher your child can turn to? Make sure she knows where to go if she needs help.
- Normalize check-ins: Ask about her day, how she’s feeling, and whether she’s comfortable managing her period at school. These little conversations build confidence.
For Students Who Haven’t Started Menstruating Yet
If you’re a girl waiting for your first period, it’s natural to feel curious or even nervous. Here’s how you can be ready:
- Keep a mini kit anyway: Periods can come unexpectedly. Having supplies on hand will make you feel more confident.
- Ask questions: Don’t be shy about asking your caregiver, a trusted adult, or even a friend about periods. Knowledge is power.
- Support your friends: If someone around you gets their period, offer kindness, not judgment. A simple “Do you need a pad?” can mean the world.
For Students Who Have Already Started Menstruating
You’re already navigating this journey, and school can add extra challenges. Here’s how to manage:
- Track your cycle: Use a calendar or an app to predict when your period might come. This reduces surprises.
- Dress smart: Dark-colored bottoms during your period can help you feel more comfortable in case of leaks.
- Stay hydrated and nourished: Eating well and drinking water can ease cramps and boost energy, especially on long school days.
- Buddy up: Share supplies with friends and look out for each other. Sometimes support comes in the form of a whispered, “You’re good, no leak.”
A Message to Male Caregivers and Boys
Periods are not “a girl thing”—they’re a human thing. Male caregivers, your daughters need your support just as much as mothers and aunts provide it. Here’s how you can help:
- Educate yourself: Learn the basics about menstruation so you can have informed, supportive conversations.
- Provide supplies: Don’t leave it up to mom—buy pads, ask if she needs more, and treat it like any other household necessity.
- Be encouraging: Your words matter. Saying “It’s normal” or “I’m here if you need me” can give your daughter tremendous confidence.
And to the boys: remember that half of your classmates will menstruate. Instead of teasing, choose kindness. Respecting your peers is part of being a good friend and a good man.
Final Thoughts
Periods are a normal part of life, and going back to school is the perfect time to normalize them even more. When students are prepared and supported—by their caregivers, their peers, and their schools—they can focus on learning, growing, and thriving.
So as we buy the pencils and the shoes, let’s also pack the pads. Let’s send our children into this school year ready for every lesson life has to teach—including the one about empathy, dignity, and care.
— Shelly-Ann Weeks
Executive Director, HerFlow Foundation
If you have any questions please email us at herflowfoundation@gmail.com
