How To Raise A Daughter: Guide For Dads

Don’t let the first time you discuss anything personal be when she starts her period. A top tip on how to raise a daughter for dads is to ask questions – and listen!

Just as you’d want to know what’s going on at school, ask her about her feelings. Fathers raising daughters will find that this makes those period conversations much easier when the time comes.

Download our Always Changing & Growing Up Parents Guide for more information.

You need to ensure that your daughter has the facts before she enters puberty, so start discussing puberty and periods from the ages of 7 or 8. If she’s already started showing the first signs of puberty, it’s definitely time to talk.

The first signs of puberty

Having ‘the talk’ as a one-off can overwhelm her with information, so address the subject in easy stages to help build your daughter’s knowledge.

Look for natural moments to talk – say, when watching an advert or film or buying period products.Fathers raising daughters often find this kind of conversation uncomfortable, so try discussing periods where there’s less need for eye contact, such as in the car.

63% of people in the UK believe we should speak openly about mensturation*

*Source: Glocalities

If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s OK to admit there are holes in your knowledge. Say you’ll find out the information she needs and get back to her – and make sure you do. You don’t want her to think you’re embarrassed or dodging the subject!

When she does start her period, don’t make a big deal of it. Say something like, ‘You may not want to talk to me about this now, but if you ever need anything, you only have to ask’.

Chances are she’ll roll her eyes and say, ‘Oh Dad!’ but a few kind words can demonstrate that you’re there for her.

Girls can get very embarrassed about being on their period, so on top of making sure that she has period products available, provide a lidded bin (with bin liner) so she doesn’t feel awkward disposing of used products.

Make sure you teach her the motto: Bin It – Don’t Flush It! Period products, or any other toiletries, shouldn’t be flushed because doing so can cause blockages in the drainage system.

There are so many different types of pads (wings, no wings, day- time, night-time) and tampons (with or without applicator, plastic or cardboard) – not to mention period pants and menstrual cups!

Here’s what you need to know when working out which period products she should use.

• Let her experiment and find out what works best for her.
• It’s OK for her to use tampons, but most girls prefer to start with pads as they’re easier to use.
• Always Ultra pads are a great place to start, because they use special technology that turns liquid into gel – and gel doesn’t leak!
• Help her find the right-sized pad by using the Always My Fit chart.