Ever since your daughter was a little girl, you've been by her side through all of life's firsts. From her first words and her first steps to her first day of school, you've been there to help guide her and celebrate each milestone. Now, she's on the cusp of another first, and it's a pretty big one: her first period.

At her age, some girls are excited to get their period. They see it as a sign that they're growing up and becoming a woman. For others, getting their period can be a confusing and even scary time. No matter how your daughter feels about it, one thing is for sure: she's going to need some help navigating this new phase of her life.

How to Prepare Your Daughter for Her First Period

One of the main reasons why young girls are so scared to get their periods is that there is just so much that they don't know. Will it be painful? Will it happen at an awkward time? Will everyone laugh? 

Having an open and honest conversation with your daughter about what to expect when she gets her first period is crucial. Talk to her about the changes her body will go through, explain the various menstrual products available to her, and let her know that it's perfectly normal to feel a little scared or confused at first.

Take your time answering her questions and make sure she knows that there is no such thing as a silly one. The more she learns, the less scary it will be. It doesn't mean she'll necessarily be looking forward to it, but at least she'll know what's coming.

Many parents find it helpful to give their daughters a copy of The Care and Keeping of You. It's a book from the American Girl Library made specifically for girls going through puberty, and it covers everything from periods to bras to body hair. Your daughter might feel more comfortable learning about her period from a book and coming to you with questions afterward.

Once you've had the talk, it's time to whip up her first period care package. We know that the menstrual cycle is anything but sunshine and rainbows, which is why a thoughtfully prepared kit of goodies can help turn that first period into a more positive experience.

What to Put in Your Daughter's First Period Care Package

The purpose of her care package is to make her feel comfortable, safe, and prepared for whatever comes her way. It should definitely include the essentials, like pads and pain relievers, but you can also add in some fun extras, like chocolates and comfy pajamas, to help her feel pampered and special. Who doesn't love a little comfort during their time of the month?

Here's a list of items to include in your first period care package:

Start with a Small Waterproof Travel Pouch

You're going to need a small, water-resistant pouch to store everything in. Choose one that's big enough to fit everything she'll need but discreet enough to pass as a pencil case or makeup bag. A zippered cosmetic bag or a toiletry kit works well; that way, she can easily keep it in her backpack or purse without feeling embarrassed.

Here are a few options from Amazon:

Sloth Waterproof Travel Pouch by SELLYFELLY

Cactus and Polkadot Period Pouches by Desing Wish Store

Donut Toiletry Bag by YUMQSEOS

Provide a Few Different Feminine Hygiene Products

Girls have a lot of different options now when it comes to menstrual products, so it's best to include a few different types in her care package. Many young girls feel the most comfortable with pads since they're less invasive than tampons and menstrual cups, but you can include a variety of products so she can figure out what works best for her. 

You can also add some absorbent period panties for extra protection against leaks. They look and feel just like regular underwear but have an extra layer of protection in the form of a leak-proof lining. Period accidents happen to everyone, so it's always good to be prepared.

Prepare for Messes With Feminine Wipes

Your daughter's flow will be pretty unpredictable at first, and even then, sometimes the most absorbent pads and tampons can still result in the occasional mess. It's a good idea to include some feminine wipes in her care package to help her freshen up.

Individually wrapped cleansing wipes are easy to throw in her bag and will help her feel refreshed and clean if she should experience a leak at school, at a friend's house, or while she's out and about.

Include Pain Relievers Just in Case

Cramps are no fun, so it's a good idea to include some pain relievers in her first period care package. Motrin and Tylenol are both effective at reducing pain and can be taken during her period as needed. If you're worried about her taking medication, you can give her 1 day's supply at a time, so she only has access to what she needs.

Now for the Fun Stuff!

Your daughter's care package doesn't have to be all about the necessities. You can also include some fun extras and additional comfort measures to help her get through her first period with a smile.

Here are some ideas:

Bring on the Treats

We all crave comfort foods during our time of the month, so include some of her favorites. Chocolate, candy, and other goodies can help improve her mood and make her feel a little better. Just be sure to include some non-sugary snacks as well, like nuts or granola bars, to help keep her energy up.

A Comfy Pair of Pajamas

There's nothing like slipping into a cozy pair of pajamas after a long day. Your daughter will appreciate having a clean set to change into when she gets home from school or practice. Choose something soft and comfortable that will make her feel relaxed and at ease.

A Cozy Blanket and Heating Pad

A blanket and a heating pad can do wonders for cramps and period pain. Include both in her first period care package so she can curl up with them when she's not feeling her best.