nanaSue

When I was a child bodily functions were not discussed like they are now and, as a consequence, when I started menstruating it came as a shock to me. I was only eleven years old so maybe my mother just hadn't expected me to start so early. I made sure that I explained it all to my own daughter so that she would not be as frightened as I was.

Mom2JDS

Yes, we discuss things as they come up. Since I haven't been a particularly private person - even in the bathroom (my smaller children are often in there with me) - they learn young that mom bleeds and I explain in a simple way that it happens to all females and something of why. Even my boys know about it (since they have sisters and will probably eventually have a wife and maybe daughters). It's like using the bathroom - it happens and it's natural

OliviaT

My oldest is 9 and we are going to be going to the library this weekend to recheck out the how babies are made books. I went over it with her about 2 years ago but I know she doesn't remember and I want her to be prepared when she does start her period.

Ambersmom

Of course I told my daughter all about her menstrual cycle before she got it. I wanted to be open with her. She started later than a lot of her friends, so she giggled when I talked about it. She had already heard it all from her friends.

Carmencita

I am not ready to start this conversation yet, however, I am with you all. It is important to make sure our kids know what to expect of their own bodies as well as how to respect them and care for them.

Penny

I can't remember how old I was but I was in the fifth grade and I had NO clue and I honestly thought I was dying so please Mom's make sure you talk to your daughters before it happens.

Momof9

I started my period when I was 10, totally ignorant. I remember the school nurse yelling at my mother because I was hysterical. I told my girls when they about 9 because I started so early; and each of them has to remind the one under her.

Greg

Our daughter is only 3 year old now so I think it's still too early to tell her about it. I also totally ignorant about these things as my parents never explained it to me. They might think that a boy don't need to know about that.

Bun

Actually, Greg, it isn't too early to start getting your daughter ready - especially if she can see her mom changing pads sometimes. Mom can tell her that it's perfectly normal, and when she is old enough, she will have it happen, too.