"Mom, I can't go to school today."

If you're a parent of a menstruating child, you've probably heard this phrase and wondered if it's really necessary. The truth? Sometimes it absolutely is—not because periods should stop life, but because our society hasn't made it easy for young people to manage menstruation with dignity.

As parents, you have incredible power to change this narrative and support period equity right in your own home. Here's how.

Start with the Basics: Make Periods Normal

Talk early and often. Don't wait for "the talk"—make periods part of regular health conversations from an early age. When your child asks where babies come from, include basic information about menstrual cycles. This normalizes periods before shame has a chance to take root.

Use real words. Say "period," "menstruation," "vagina," and "uterus." Avoiding medical terms or using euphemisms like "that time of the month" suggests there's something shameful about normal body functions.

Include all children. Don't just talk to the kids who will menstruate—include siblings of all genders. When everyone understands periods, everyone can be supportive.

Create a Supportive Environment

Stock supplies openly. Keep period products in easily accessible places, not hidden away. Treat them like any other health necessity—like bandaids or toothpaste.

Offer choices. Every body is different. Some prefer pads, others tampons, and some love menstrual cups. Let your child try different options to find what works best for them.

Plan for emergencies. Pack period products in backpacks, car glove compartments, and purses. Normalize having supplies "just in case" for yourself or others who might need them.

Make comfort a priority. Stock up on heating pads, pain relief, and comfort foods. Show that managing period discomfort is normal and important.

Advocate Beyond Your Home

Know your school's policy. Ask what period products are available at school and advocate for free supplies if they're not provided.

Support your child's advocacy. If your child wants to talk to teachers or start a period equity club, be their biggest cheerleader.

Vote for period equity. Support candidates and policies that eliminate the pink tax and provide free period products in schools.

Model the conversation. Talk openly about periods with other adults. When parents normalize these conversations, kids notice.

Handle the Tough Moments

When they're in pain: Believe them. Period pain is real and varies greatly between individuals. Work with healthcare providers to find effective pain management strategies.

When they're emotional: Validate their feelings without attributing everything to their period. Hormonal changes are real, but so are the regular stresses of growing up.

When they want to skip activities: Have honest conversations about what's necessary versus what's habitual. Sometimes rest is needed; sometimes encouragement to participate helps build confidence.

When they're embarrassed: Share your own stories (if appropriate) and remind them that half the world's population deals with periods. Shame thrives in isolation but disappears with community.

Address the Practical Stuff

Budget for periods. Plan for the monthly cost of supplies (around $20+ per month) and don't make it a source of stress or shame.

Teach supply management. Help them learn to track cycles, recognize signs, and prepare accordingly.

Normalize asking for help. Make sure they know they can always ask you, a trusted adult, or school nurse for supplies or support.

Plan for overnight stays. Pack supplies for sleepovers and trips, and help them communicate needs with other trusted adults.

When Money is Tight

Prioritize quality over quantity. Sometimes fewer, better products work better than many cheap ones that don't work well.

Look for community resources. Many schools, community centers, and organizations provide free period products.

Teach DIY solutions safely. While not ideal long-term, sometimes families need creative solutions. Research safe, temporary alternatives together.

Connect with support programs. Organizations like ours provide empowerment boxes and resources for families facing period poverty.

Signs You're Getting It Right

Your child:

Talks to you openly about period-related needs
Helps friends who need supplies or support
Participates in activities regardless of their cycle
Advocates for themselves and others
Sees periods as normal health experiences, not shameful secrets

Remember: You're Raising an Advocate

Every conversation you have about periods, every time you normalize menstruation, every moment you support your child's voice—you're raising someone who will help create a more equitable world.

The young people who grow up in homes where periods are discussed openly and managed practically become the adults who change policies, challenge stigmas, and support the next generation.

Your family conversations today become tomorrow's social change.

Small Actions, Big Impact

Supporting period equity at home doesn't require big gestures or expensive programs. It requires:

Open communication about normal body functions
Practical support for managing menstruation with dignity
Advocacy skills that empower your child to speak up
Community awareness that extends support beyond your family

When parents normalize periods and support their children's advocacy, they create ripple effects that transform schools, communities, and eventually, society.

You've Got This

Remember: there's no perfect way to handle every period-related situation. What matters is that you're trying, learning, and showing your child that their health and dignity matter.

Every parent who has these conversations makes it easier for the next family. Every child who grows up without period shame becomes an adult who creates positive change.

Together, we're raising a generation that won't accept period poverty as normal—and it starts right at home.

Need resources for talking to your child about periods or want to connect with other supportive parents? Visit our website for family-friendly guides and community connections..

How Parents Can Support Period Equity at Home