It is important for children to learn about the process of menstruation even if it will not happen to their body. A healthy understanding of menstruation helps to dispel any shame or stigma around the topic and fosters empathy and respect. The more a child knows about their body, or the bodies around them, the more prepared they are to make good and healthy choices. This resource list offers resources for parents and youth on topics such as menstruation, healthy hygiene practices, and how to prepare for and manage periods.
"In the puberty section of Amaze's website you can find short videos on mensutration. Look for the following videos: -Puberty in Girls, Menstruation- What to Expect, All About Getting Your Period, Period Symptoms and Self Care, Period Hygiene, Menstruation Sensation, Menstruation Stigma. "
Source: Amaze
This is a guide for parents to aid in discussing puberty topics with their daughters. It dives deep into menstruation, private and public behaviors, healthy hygiene practices, and exams at the doctors.
Source: Vanderbilt Kennedy Center
This site has information on menstrual hygiene and also has links to storyboards to use when providing instruction about preparing for and managing a period.
Source: Advocate Medical Group-Adults with Down Syndrome Center
This fully-illustrated book follows Ellie as she begins to notice changes to her body during puberty. It covers all the changes that they will experience, both emotional such as new feelings and physical such as periods.
Source: Kate E. Reynolds
This two-part webinar is presented by two OBGYNs to discuss puberty and menstruation for youth with disabilities. Part one provides resoures and conversations starters with your child. In part 2, questions from parents are discused and answered. Contraception methods are also discussed.
Source: Cincinnatti Childrens Hospital
This book, written by an autistic author for "people who have periods" , provides information on the basics of menstruation and what periods look and feel like. It offers advice for managing hygiene and pain, and also provides step by step photos of how to change pads and tampons, while discussing alternative options. Information about possible sensory issues is provided. This book is written in a "gender neutral style".
Source: Robyn Steward
Teachers Pay Teachers is a hub for teacher-produced materials on many subjects, including periods. You can purchase for a low cost different lesson plans, social stories, visuals regarding period management.
Source: Teachers Pay Teachers
Menstrupedia, an Indian non-profit organization, created several videos explaining periods, caring for your body during a period, and period hygiene. These videos are available in English and multiple Indian languages. They do have some culturally specific information to India but provide simple clear explanations and illustrations that could be helpful.
Source: Menstrupedia
Pelvic Exams are a common physical exam, but they can be scary and uncomfortable if you don’t know what to expect. This social story walks you through the process of a pelvic exam and includes a glossary that breaks down terms like pelvis, uterus, vagina, and more. Available in English and Spanish and a large print format.
Source: SexEdVA Disability-inclusive Sexual Health Network