Period starter kit – How to make sure your child is prepared
Why have a period starter kit?
Starting your periods at any age can be a pretty nerve-wracking thing! Given that the average age for someone to start their periods is 11, that’s a big deal for a child to have to cope with. This is why being well-informed and prepared in advance is really important. Planning for the first period reduces the stress of the unknown and ensures there are no surprises or embarrassment when the time comes. Therefore, giving your child a well-planned period starter kit will ensure their first period is uneventful and as stress-free as possible.
Essential items for a school period kit bag
1) Small bag or pouch/make-up bag/large pencil case
It sounds obvious, but something compact and discreet to put inside the main school bag is essential for a period starter kit. It needs to hold around 5 items and be something that can be carried around easily. A large pencil-case or small clutch bag is ideal for this. Pretty designs are always welcome! Internal compartments are a bonus. But the one thing it mustn’t be is see through – imagine taking it out in a public toilet and everyone knowing what’s in your bag! The aim of this bag is to reduce or avoid embarrassment, so choose carefully.
2) Spare pair of period pants/knickers
An absolute must, these make getting your period for the first time so much easier. Period knickers are discreet, comfortable and so convenient. Furthermore, they absorb the period blood straight into the inner lining without the need for wearing a sanitary pad. They are great because they can be worn for up to 12 hours and should see your child to the end of the school day. Moreover, the beauty of it is, period pants are re-usable, so you will save lots of money and protect the environment too! Find the period pants above at https://www.facebook.com/contourcup (sold in France)
Tip: Period knickers are so much better than menstrual pads for P.E and sports. They are just like regular knickers and don’t move around or bunch up during physical activity like pads do.
VERY IMPORTANT!
Remember to include a separate bag (perhaps a sealable sandwich bag or zip lock bag) in order to put the old, blood- stained knickers in. This will contain any odour and ensure the blood doesn’t leak onto anything else. Many children who get their first period at school end up throwing their pants away if they’re soiled because they don’t have anywhere to put them. This way, the dirty pants can be taken home and washed, rather than wasted.
3)Re-usable menstrual pads and spare knickers to change into
Re-usable menstrual pads are really the alternative to having a pair of period knickers in your period starter kit. They’re a little bulkier than period knickers, but still a really good option for children or teens just starting their periods. They’re placed over the gusset of regular pants and need to be changed regularly, every 4 or so hours. Re-usable, material pads are soft and comfy and are also eco-friendly. In addition, they are washable and save an incredible amount of money as opposed to using throw-away period products.
4) Pocket-sized packet of wet wipes
Periods are messy! Especially when you’re least expecting them and they catch you unawares. A packet of bio baby wipes or wet wipes can be an absolute gift for freshening up if period blood has leaked. Luckily, the very first period is not usually very heavy, but it makes sense to be prepared, just in case there is any mess to clean up.
Just remember that wet wipes can’t be flushed down the toilet and have to be thrown in a sanitary bin, so children need to be aware of this.
What should I include in a home period starter kit?
Hot water bottle or heat pad
In addition to having supplies of period pants and re-usable pads at home, there are other essential items which could be included in a home period starter kit.
A hot water bottle or heat pad is a welcome friend when it comes to combatting period pain. The heat warms up muscles and provides soothing relief from menstrual cramps according to the Mayo Clinic
Chocolate or sweet snack
Sometimes, the only thing we want is chocolate and nothing else will do! There is actually a reason for this. Due to a change in hormone levels and a dip in serotonin, we often crave a sweet treat during our period. I stock up on treat sized chocolate bars for myself and my 2 daughters so there’s always something handy. You could have some fruit such as grapes to snack on. Nuts and dried fruits are another good option and give a little energy boost when needed.
Tip Try not to overdo it with the sugary snacks. Calories can soon add up, so everything in moderation is better than overindulging. This is why mini or treat size bars are great to have in the biscuit tin for those “Need chocolate NOW!” moments.
Calendar or diary
For marking out the dates and planning when the next period is due. So helpful to know when to expect the next “monthly” to arrive so there are no unexpected surprises. A diary can also be used to record and track any symptoms that may occur and for making notes.
Tip A diary which has a space for journalling any feelings may well be appreciated. This is a very emotional time and getting everything down on paper can be really therapeutic.
Period starter kit checklist
- Period pants
- Re-usable period pads
- Spare knickers
- Sealable bag
- Make-up bag or pencil case/pouch
- Sweet treat
- Hot water bottle/heat pad
- Biodegradable wet wipes
- Sense of humour (not obligatory, but helps!)
- Diary or calendar
Have you prepared your child with a period starter kit? What did you put in it?
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Very nice site I would like one mum
Thank you for your kind comment, Amber. I will make you a period kit for school.