Let’s cut to the chase: Yesterday, I took the plunge and showed my 7-year-old daughter, Lily, how to use a tampon. Now, before you clutch your pearls or consider calling child services, let me explain.
Growing up, I never once saw my mother in the nude. I didn’t get to witness the beautiful imperfections that tell her story—the soft curves, the marks that come with life, and the strength that embodies motherhood. Instead, my understanding of women’s bodies came from the unrealistic images plastered across screens and billboards—idealized, edited versions that couldn’t be further from reality.
So, I made a different choice. I want Lily to see me as I am—flaws and all—so she understands that every body is unique and worthy of love. We’re not nudists or anything (though if that’s your vibe, more power to you), but if I’m getting out of the shower and she happens to be brushing her teeth, I don’t hide. If I’m getting dressed while she’s curled up in bed, there’s no need for modesty. And if I’m in the bathroom, well, let’s be real—a closed door is merely a suggestion to a curious child.
“Mama, what are you doing?” she asked brightly yesterday.
“I’m changing my tampon,” I replied.
Lily nodded, already familiar with the concept. We had talked about it when she innocently asked, “Mama, why does her vagina have a tail?” Earlier that week, after I had a less-than-stellar moment in the grocery store, she had picked up a box of tampons and said, “You probably need to buy these too, right, Mama?” Smart kid—she was spot on!
“Can you show me how?” she inquired.
I paused for a moment, contemplating whether I should wait. Then I thought, why not? I’ve already guided her through other essentials like how to wipe properly and blow her nose. A woman’s menstrual cycle is just as normal and natural, so why make it a secret?
I reflected on my own experience: I had to learn about tampons on my own because my mother thought I was too young. I remember sneaking to the store, feeling my face flush as I bought a box. I locked the bathroom door, sat in front of the mirror, and fumbled my way through figuring out how to insert it. After much trial and error, I finally succeeded—only to realize I hadn’t removed the applicator!
That’s something I could help Lily avoid.
So, I showed her every step—how to open the package, prep the applicator, and use it correctly. I wanted to normalize this process, to show her that it can be just another part of life, much like any other bodily function.
I know some might argue I could have waited, but I believe in removing the stigma around discussing periods. They’re normal, they’re natural, and yes, they can be messy, but we should be able to talk about it openly.
Now, my daughter has a better understanding of her own body, right from the most significant woman in her life. This feels not just normal but completely right.
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In summary, teaching my daughter about tampons was not just a lesson in bodily function; it was about normalizing our bodies and fostering open conversations that empower her to embrace her own changes as she grows.
Keyphrase: Teaching kids about menstruation
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