The Period Academy — period education for kids ages 8-14
The Period Academy — period education for kids ages 8-14

The Blog

Expert advice from a certified nurse-midwife who's helped over 1,000 families navigate the period conversation.

LatestBoys Too

When Your Son Sees His Sister in Pain: How to Explain Period Cramps to Boys

Scripts for explaining period cramps to boys when they see a sister in pain. Raise empathetic, period-literate sons with Nurse Al's practical guidance.

Nurse Al··5
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Period Products

Period Underwear vs. Pads for Tweens: Which Is Actually Better?

Nurse Al compares period underwear vs. pads for tweens: comfort, protection, cost, and which works best for beginners, athletes, and busy school days.

Nurse Al·
5
First Period

Back-to-School Period Prep: Everything Your Daughter Needs Before September

Get your daughter period-ready before school starts with Nurse Al's back-to-school period prep guide — supplies, routines, and conversations that actually help.

Nurse Al·
5
Talking to Kids

How to Talk to Your Daughter's Coach or Teacher About Her Period

Scripts and strategies for talking to your daughter's coach or teacher about her period — so she gets the accommodations she needs without the awkwardness.

Nurse Al·
5
Period Products

How Long Should Tweens Wear a Pad? A Guide to Changing on Schedule

Nurse Al answers how long tweens should wear a pad before changing. Learn the safe schedule for light, medium, and heavy days to stay comfortable.

Nurse Al·
5
Period Products

Can Tweens Wear Period Underwear While Swimming? What Parents Need to Know

Period underwear isn't designed for swimming. A nurse midwife explains what actually works for tweens who need period protection in the water.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
First Period

Your Tween's Summer Period Kit: What to Pack for Every Adventure

Everything your tween needs in her summer period kit — for sleepovers, overnight camp, pool days, road trips, and every adventure this season.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
Period Products

Pantyliners for Tweens: The Gentle First Step in Period Protection (A Nurse-Midwife Recommends)

A nurse midwife explains when and why pantyliners are the perfect first period product for tweens — and how to choose, introduce, and use them.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
Period Health

Period Mood Swings vs. Teen Anxiety: How to Tell the Difference (A Nurse-Midwife Explains)

A nurse midwife explains the key differences between period mood swings and teen anxiety — and how to know when to watch, wait, or call the doctor.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
First Period

First Period at a Sleepover: How to Prepare Your Daughter (and What to Do If It Happens)

How to prepare your daughter for a first period at a sleepover — what to pack, what to say, and what to do if it happens while she's away from home.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
Talking to Kids

How to Answer Your Daughter's Awkward Period Questions Without Making It Weird

Stumped by your daughter's period questions? A nurse-midwife shares real scripts for the most common—and most embarrassing—questions kids actually ask.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
Period Products

Organic Period Products for Teens: Are They Worth It? A Nurse-Midwife Weighs In

Are organic period products for teens actually better? Nurse Al breaks down what "organic" means, which products it applies to, and whether it's worth the switch.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
Boys Too

Raising Period-Literate Sons: Why Period Awareness Is the New Standard for Boys

Raising period-literate sons isn't just the right thing to do—it's becoming the standard. Here's why it matters and how to do it at home.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
Period Products

How to Choose the Right Period Products for Tweens: A Nurse-Midwife's Guide

Not sure which period products are best for tweens? Nurse Al compares pads, tampons, period underwear, and more to help you find the right fit.

Nurse Al·
7 min read
Boys Too

Period Education for Boys at School: What Middle Schoolers Need to Know (And How to Teach It)

Period education for boys at school builds empathy and reduces stigma. Here's what middle schoolers should learn — and how parents can start the conversation.

Nurse Al·
7 min read
Period Health

Exercise During Your Period: Which Workouts Actually Help Cramps (A Nurse-Midwife Explains)

Should teens exercise during their period? Yes—but the right workouts matter. A nurse explains which exercises relieve cramps and which can make them worse.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
Boys Too

My Son Found My Period Products: What to Say in That Moment

Your son found a tampon or pad and wants to know what it is. Here's exactly what to say—and what not to say—when this perfectly teachable moment arrives.

Nurse Al·
5 min read
First Period

What to Do If You Get Your First Period at School: A Complete Guide for Tweens

Getting your first period at school doesn't have to be a crisis. Here's exactly what to do, step by step, so you feel calm and prepared.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
First Period

What Really Happens When You Get Your First Period: A Nurse-Midwife's Honest Guide

Wondering what happens when you get your first period? Nurse Al breaks down exactly what to expect — from first signs to what to do next.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
First Period

When Your Daughter Gets Her Period on Vacation: A Complete Parent Prep Guide

Expert tips for when your daughter gets her period on vacation. Learn what to pack, how to stay calm, and how to make sure her period never ruins a trip.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
Talking to Kids

The Best Period Books for Tweens: A Nurse-Midwife's Reading List

Looking for period books to help your tween understand puberty? Nurse Al shares her top picks — books that are accurate, age-appropriate, and actually readable.

Nurse Al·
8
Boys Too

Age-by-Age Guide: When and How to Teach Boys About Periods

A practical, grade-by-grade guide for parents on when to teach boys about periods — from preschool through middle school, with scripts for every stage.

Nurse Al·
8
Period Health

Spotting Between Periods in Teens: What's Normal and What to Watch For

Is your daughter noticing light bleeding between periods? Nurse Al explains what causes spotting in teens, what's normal, and when to see a doctor.

Nurse Al·
7
First Period

Your Daughter's First Period at Summer Camp: A Parent's Complete Prep Guide

Sending your daughter to overnight camp this summer? Here's exactly how to prep her for a first period away from home — from supplies to scripts to what staff need to know.

Nurse Al·
8
Boys Too

What Boys Should Know About Periods: A Middle School Guide for Parents

Nurse Al breaks down exactly what boys should know about periods — practical, age-appropriate guidance for parents raising empathetic, informed sons.

Nurse Al·
7
Talking to Kids

How to Talk to Your Daughter About Period Products: A Step-by-Step Guide

A step-by-step guide for parents on how to talk to daughters about period products — from pads to tampons to reusable options — with confidence.

Nurse Al·
7 min read
Period Health

Why Your Daughter Can't Sleep During Her Period (And What Actually Helps)

Period and sleep disruption in teens is common and hormonal — not random. A nurse-midwife explains why it happens and what actually helps.

Nurse Al·
7 min read
Period Products

Reusable Period Products for Teens: A Parent's Guide to Eco-Friendly Options

Explore the best reusable period products for teens — cloth pads, period underwear, menstrual cups, and discs. A nurse-midwife parent guide.

Nurse Al·
7 min read
Talking to Kids

8 Period Myths Tweens Still Believe (And How to Correct Them)

Period myths for teens are everywhere — in schools, on social media, from friends. A nurse-midwife corrects the 8 most common misconceptions.

Nurse Al·
7 min read
Period Products

Menstrual Discs for Teens: Are They Right for Your Daughter?

Learn how menstrual discs for teens work, how they compare to cups, and whether your daughter is ready to try one. A nurse-midwife guide.

Nurse Al·
7 min read
Period Health

Best Period Tracking Apps for Teens in 2025: A Parent's Guide

Looking for the best period tracking app for your teen? A nurse-midwife reviews top options, privacy considerations, and how to get your daughter started.

Nurse Al·
8 min read
Boys Too

Does My Son Need Period Education? What the Research Says

Should boys learn about periods? Research says yes. A nurse-midwife explains why period education benefits your son, his classmates, and your family.

Nurse Al·
7 min read
Period Health

Period Odor: What's Normal and What's Not for Teens

Is period odor normal? A nurse-midwife explains what's normal, what's not, and the hygiene habits that help teens manage period smell with confidence.

Nurse Al·
7 min read
Period Health

Period Nausea in Teens: Why Your Daughter Feels Sick on Her Period (And What Helps)

Why does your daughter feel sick on her period? A nurse-midwife explains the real cause of period nausea in teens — and what actually helps.

Nurse Al·
7 min read
Period Health

Period Headaches in Teens: Why Your Daughter Gets Migraines Before Her Period

Learn why your daughter gets hormonal headaches and migraines before her period — and what actually helps. From a nurse-midwife at The Period Academy.

Nurse Al·
7 min read

The 4 Phases of the Menstrual Cycle Explained: A Simple Guide for Teens and Parents

Most people think the period is the whole cycle — it's not. It's just one of four phases. Here's a clear, simple breakdown of all 4 phases of the menstrual cycle, what's happening in the body, and what to expect each step of the way.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read

Does Stress Affect Your Period? What Parents and Teens Need to Know

Yes, stress really can affect your period. A nurse-midwife explains how stress disrupts the menstrual cycle in teens, what changes to watch for, and how to help your daughter.

Nurse Al·
6 min read
Talking to Kids

How to Prepare Your Daughter for Her First Period: A Complete Parent Guide

Learn how to prepare your daughter for her first period with this nurse-midwife guide. Covers when to start, having the talk, building a period kit, products, and emotional readiness.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

Period Bloating in Teens: Why It Happens and What Actually Helps

Learn why period bloating happens in teens, how much is normal, and what actually helps — from food and magnesium to gentle movement. A nurse-midwife explains.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read
Period Health

Toxic Shock Syndrome in Teens: What Every Parent Needs to Know

TSS is rare — but parents of tween girls who use tampons need the facts. A nurse-midwife explains the real risk, warning signs, and exactly how to prevent toxic shock syndrome in teens.

Emily Lowe·
7 min read
Period Health

Why Is My Daughter's Period Late? 8 Reasons That Have Nothing to Do With Pregnancy

If your daughter's period is late, pregnancy isn't the only explanation. A nurse-midwife explains the 8 most common reasons teen periods run late — and when to call the doctor.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read
Period Health

Period Blood Clots in Teens: What's Normal and When to Call the Doctor

Seeing blood clots during your daughter's period can be alarming — but most of the time, it's completely normal. A nurse-midwife explains what's typical, what's too much, and when to call the doctor.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

PMDD in Teenagers: When Your Daughter's PMS Might Be Something More

Is your daughter's PMS actually PMDD? Learn the signs of premenstrual dysphoric disorder in teenagers, how it differs from PMS, and what parents can do to help.

The Period Academy·
7 min
Period Health

Signs of Endometriosis in Teenage Girls: How to Tell If Your Daughter's Pain Is More Than Cramps

Could your daughter's painful periods be endometriosis? Learn the key signs of endometriosis in teenage girls — and why early recognition changes everything.

Al Zonsius·
8 min read
Period Health

Period Acne in Teens: Why Your Daughter Breaks Out Before Her Period (And What Helps)

Learn why period acne in teens happens, what hormonal changes cause breakouts before and during a period, and practical steps to help your daughter's skin.

The Period Academy·
6 min read

Why Is My Daughter So Tired on Her Period? A Nurse-Midwife Explains

It's normal to feel exhausted during your period — but why? A nurse-midwife explains the real reasons behind period fatigue in teenagers and what actually helps.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

Period Cramp Remedies for Tweens: What Actually Helps

A certified nurse-midwife shares evidence-based period cramp remedies for tweens — from heat therapy and ibuprofen timing to gentle movement, nutrition, and when to see a doctor.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

Signs of PCOS in Teenage Girls: What Every Parent Should Know

Is your daughter showing signs of PCOS? Learn the key symptoms in teen girls — from irregular periods to acne and androgen excess — and when to talk to a doctor.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
First Period

How Long Between First and Second Period? What to Expect After Menarche

How long between first and second period is normal? A certified nurse-midwife explains why gaps of 2–3 months are typically healthy after menarche — and when to call the doctor.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read
First Period

Late First Period: When to Worry About Delayed Menarche (A Nurse-Midwife's Guide)

Is your daughter's first period late? Here's when pediatricians consider it delayed menarche, the most common causes, and exactly when to call her doctor.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read

How to Talk to Your Daughter's School About Period Accommodations

Not sure how to talk to your daughter's school about period accommodations? Here's exactly what to say to teachers, nurses, and administrators — and what every school should offer.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read
Period Products

How to Use a Pad for the First Time: A Step-by-Step Guide for Tweens

Not sure how to use a pad for the first time? This simple step-by-step guide for tweens covers everything — how to put on a pad, when to change it, and what to do at school.

The Period Academy Team·
6 min read
First Period

How Long Does a First Period Last? What Parents and Tweens Need to Know

Most first periods last 2 to 7 days, but there's a wide range of normal. Learn what to expect, when to see a doctor, and how to help your tween feel prepared and confident.

The Period Academy·
6
Period Health

Natural Remedies for Period Cramps in Teens: What Actually Works

Discover nurse-midwife-approved natural remedies for period cramps in teens — from heat therapy to magnesium — so your daughter can feel better fast.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
First Period

How to Make a First Period Kit for Your Daughter (Complete Checklist)

A nurse-midwife's complete guide to building a first period kit for your daughter — home kit, school kit, and how to make the moment feel special.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Talking to Kids

What to Say When Your Daughter Gets Her First Period (Word-for-Word Scripts)

Not sure what to say when your daughter gets her first period? A nurse-midwife shares warm, real scripts for parents—so you're ready when the moment arrives.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read
First Period

Puberty Signs Before the First Period: What Parents Need to Know

A nurse-midwife explains the sequence of puberty signs before the first period — breast buds, discharge, growth spurts — and what each one means.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

How to Stop Period Leaks at Night for Tweens (A Nurse-Midwife's Guide)

Worried about overnight period leaks? A certified nurse-midwife explains the best products and bedtime routine to stop period leaks at night for tweens.

Al Zonsius·
8 min read
Boys Too

How to Explain Periods to Your Son: Scripts That Actually Work

Wondering how to explain periods to your son? Here's an age-by-age guide with real scripts, practical tips, and the why behind the talk — from a nurse-midwife.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

When to Take Your Daughter to the Gynecologist: A Complete Parent Guide

Wondering when to take your daughter to the gynecologist? A nurse-midwife explains the right age, warning signs, and what to expect at her first visit.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Talking to Kids

Period Anxiety in Tweens: How to Help Your Daughter Feel Ready (Not Scared)

Period anxiety in tweens is incredibly common. Learn how to help your daughter replace fear with confidence before her first period arrives.

Al Zonsius·
5 min read
Period Health

Period Blood Color Meaning for Teens: What Every Parent Should Know

Brown, dark red, pink, or black period blood — what's normal for teen girls? A nurse-midwife explains every color and when to see a doctor.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Talking to Kids

How to Talk to Your Daughter About Her Period as a Dad

A warm, practical guide for dads on how to talk to your daughter about her period — scripts, product tips, and how to handle her first period with confidence.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Products

Can Tweens Use Menstrual Cups? A Nurse-Midwife's Honest Guide

Wondering if your tween can use a menstrual cup? A certified nurse-midwife explains the real answer, what age is right, and how to help her try.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
First Period

How to Help Your Daughter Stay Active During Her Period

84% of teen girls reduce sports activity after their period starts. Here's what parents of active daughters need to know — from a nurse-midwife.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

Heavy Period in Your Teen Daughter: What's Normal and When to Act

Is your daughter's period too heavy? A nurse-midwife explains what's normal, warning signs to watch for, and when to call the doctor.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

Period Hygiene Tips for Tweens: What Every Parent Should Teach

Learn the essential period hygiene tips for tweens — how often to change products, how to stay clean at school, and how to help your daughter feel confident.

Al Zonsius·
8 min read
Period Health

What to Eat on Your Period: A Food Guide for Tweens

Discover which foods ease period cramps and which ones make them worse. A nurse-midwife's practical guide to period nutrition for tweens and their parents.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read
Period Health

How to Help Your Daughter with PMS Mood Swings

Your daughter's mood swings before her period are real — and you can help. A CNM explains PMS emotions in teens and what parents can actually do about it.

Al Zonsius·
8 min read
Period Health

How to Teach Your Daughter to Track Her Period (And Why It Matters)

Learn how to teach your daughter to track her period with this nurse-midwife guide — apps, timing, what to log, and why cycle awareness builds lifelong confidence.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
First Period

Vaginal Discharge Before First Period: What's Normal for Your Daughter

Vaginal discharge before first period is normal but confusing. A nurse-midwife explains what's typical, what to watch for, and how to talk to your daughter.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

Irregular Periods in Teens: What's Normal and When to Worry

Irregular periods in teens are usually normal — but not always. A nurse-midwife explains the 2-year rule, red flags to watch for, and when to call the doctor.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

Can My Daughter Swim on Her Period? A Parent's Complete Guide

Can your daughter swim on her period? A certified nurse-midwife explains what products work, what doesn't, and how to help her stay active.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read
First Period

How to Prepare Your Daughter for Her Period at School

Help your daughter handle her period at school with confidence. A nurse-midwife shares what to pack, what to say, and how to plan for the unexpected.

Al Zonsius·
9 min read
Period Products

Tampons for Tweens: When to Introduce Them and How to Help

A nurse-midwife's guide to when teens can start using tampons — how to teach insertion, choose the right product, and stay safe.

Al Zonsius·
9 min read
Period Health

Is My Daughter's Period Pain Normal? A Nurse-Midwife Explains

Learn the difference between normal period cramps and pain that warrants a doctor visit. A nurse-midwife breaks down the red flags, key conditions, and how to advocate for your daughter.

Al Zonsius·
8 min read
Period Health

What Is a Normal Menstrual Cycle Length? (Hint: It's Not Always 28 Days)

Most people learn that a "normal" period comes every 28 days — but that's actually a myth. Here's what the research really says about cycle length, and why the range is much wider than you think.

Al Zonsius·
4 min read
Period Products

Period Underwear for Tweens: The Pad Alternative Every Mom Should Know About

If your daughter hates pads, period underwear might be the answer. A nurse-midwife explains how it works, what to buy, and why tweens love it.

Al Zonsius·
5 min read
Period Health

PMS by the Numbers: What the Research Actually Says About Premenstrual Symptoms

Three out of four people who menstruate experience PMS — but most don't know what's really behind the symptoms. A nurse-midwife breaks down the stats, the science, and what's worth paying attention to.

Al Zonsius·
4 min read
First Period

What Is the Average Age for a First Period? The Cycle Stats Every Parent Should Know

The average first period age is 12 — but normal spans ages 8 to 16. A nurse-midwife breaks down the key cycle stats every parent and pre-teen should know.

Al Zonsius·
4 min read
Period Products

Best Period Products for Tweens: A Nurse-Midwife's Guide

A nurse-midwife breaks down the best period products for tweens — pads, period underwear, tampons, and cups — so you can choose the right fit with confidence.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Period Health

What Is a Normal Period? A Nurse-Midwife Explains

A CNM breaks down what's actually normal for a period — length, flow, color, and timing — so you can stop guessing and start knowing.

Al Ezell, CNM·
6 min read
Period Health

How to Help Your Daughter with Period Cramps

Learn what actually helps with period cramps in tweens and teens — from a midwife mom's perspective. Heat, ibuprofen timing, and when to call the doctor.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read
First Period

Signs Your Daughter Is About to Get Her First Period

Learn the key signs that your daughter's first period is coming soon — from breast budding to vaginal discharge — so you can prepare her with confidence.

Al Zonsius·
5 min read
First Period

First Period Kit: What to Include (And What Most Kits Get Wrong)

A nurse-midwife breaks down exactly what belongs in a first period kit, what doesn't, and why education matters more than products.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read
Boys Too

Period Talk for Boys: Why Your Son Needs This Conversation Too

Why boys need period education, what age to start, what to cover, and how to make it matter-of-fact and empowering.

Al Zonsius·
5 min read
Talking to Kids

How to Talk to Your Daughter About Her First Period

A nurse-midwife's guide to having the period conversation with your daughter — when to start, what to say, and common mistakes parents make.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read
Talking to Kids

Why Schools Don't Teach Enough About Periods (And What Parents Can Do)

What school period education actually covers, why it falls short, and a nurse-midwife's practical guide for parents to fill the gap.

Al Zonsius·
7 min read
Talking to Kids

What Age Should You Talk to Your Kids About Periods?

An age-by-age guide from a certified nurse-midwife on when and how to introduce period education — from ages 5 to 14.

Al Zonsius·
6 min read

Ready to start the conversation?

The Period Academy's video gives you and your child a fun, expert-led starting point. Watch it together.

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