A Girl's Guide to Puberty & Periods
A Girl's Guide to Puberty and Periods Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (36)
What’s inside...
The book provides a detailed look at what girls can expect during puberty, including physical and emotional changes. It covers topics such as menstruation, hygiene, and body image, offering practical advice and support to help girls feel confident and informed. A Girl's Guide to Puberty and Periods is a body-positive illustrated book that helps girls, ages 9-14, understand what to expect about puberty and everything that goes with it. The book shares 'my first period' stories from girls across the U.S. of all backgrounds to help your child understand that everything they are going through is okay and normal. Parents will appreciate that the book also incorporates factual health content and practical tips developed by health experts at Columbia University. The goal is to empower girls to feel more confident and knowledgeable about their changing bodies.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-11
Length
108 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did this book make you feel about the changes happening in your body?
What is one thing you learned from the book that you think is important to remember?
Can you tell me about a person in the book who you relate to or find interesting, and why?
Are there any questions or concerns you have after reading this book that we can talk about together?
What advice from the book do you think will be the most helpful for you in the future?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create an open and comfortable environment where your child feels safe to express their thoughts and feelings about puberty.
Listen actively and empathetically, ensuring to validate their feelings and experiences shared during the discussion.
Utilize the book's content to clarify misunderstandings and provide additional information on puberty and menstruation.
Encourage an ongoing dialogue by regularly revisiting the topics covered in the book and asking about any new thoughts or questions your child might have.
Reassure your child that it's normal to feel curious or uncertain about the changes discussed in the book, and that you're there to support them every step of the way.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Physical Changes
Explanation: The book guides readers through the physical changes that occur during puberty, using clear and empathetic language.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing and accepting the changes in their bodies, helping them to feel more confident and less anxious.
Example Lesson: Importance of Personal Hygiene
Explanation: This guide emphasizes the significance of maintaining good hygiene during puberty, explaining necessary practices in an accessible manner.
Real-World Application: This instills habits like regular bathing and proper care during menstrual cycles, crucial for health and well-being.
Example Lesson: Healthy Emotional Expression
Explanation: Marni Sommer's book discusses the emotional fluctuations that can accompany puberty, advocating for open communication.
Real-World Application: Children learn to express their feelings constructively, improving their emotional intelligence and strengthening relationships with family and peers.
Example Lesson: Seeking Support and Advice
Explanation: The narrative encourages readers to seek information and support from trusted adults, emphasizing the importance of not facing challenges alone.
Real-World Application: Children are informed about the importance of asking questions and seeking help, promoting a proactive approach to overcoming challenges during adolescence.
Example Lesson: Empowerment through Knowledge
Explanation: By educating about puberty and menstruation, the book empowers young girls with knowledge, preparing them for these changes.
Real-World Application: This knowledge promotes self-assurance and decision-making abilities, essential for personal development and autonomy.