Sunday, May 17, 2009

What Girls Wish Moms Knew (Tip 2)


When it comes to puberty, mom remains the No. 1 source girls want to turn to, according to KidsHealth’s recent online survey of 11,000 girls. It’s good news tempered a little by their answer to the next question: Are you comfortable talking to your mom about periods, bras, and boys?

Only 26% said yes.

We asked why and thousands of girls told us what keeps them from closer, more productive conversations with their moms. Here's the second of 10 daughter-mother tips:

Daughter-Mother Tip #2: Meet privately and don’t tell anyone about it later.
A top concern was feeling embarrassed because other people were part of the conversation or found out the details later. Even if those people were sisters or aunts, girls still felt embarrassed. Of course, you might want to share something with your spouse or close friend. If you must, ensure that this person will NOT spill the beans. What dads know is particularly sensitive.

One girl said she was worried about telling her mom anything because “she might tell my dad, and my dad has a hard time keeping his voice low in public areas.” But other girls praised their moms as confidantes. “My mom is easy to talk to because what we say stays between us.”

It makes sense when you think of it. By talking about puberty, your daughter is sharing private thoughts and concerns. The subject of her growing might throw you off balance, so it's normal to want to tell other people. But let them know this subject isn't one for the dinner table or the next family reunion. It's a great chance to show her you're trustworthy and respectful. Someone she can turn to again and again.

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