Periods
How to read the stories

Periods

There are many changes in a child’s body as he or she grows from being a child to becoming an adult. In our society it can be hard to think about sexual changes - the ways in which a boy grows into being a man and the ways in which a girl grows into becoming a woman.

Most girls grow breasts as they become women. Most girls and women get hair under their arms and between their legs. They notice that they sweat more in these places. It also helps if they learn how to keep themselves clean and fresh. The most important new thing for most girls is when ‘good’ blood comes out of their vaginas, showing they are now able to bear children physically even if it is several years before they are ready. Mothers can help their daughters enjoy these new experiences, but if they are frightened or worried about them their daughters might find it harder.

How to read the stories

There is no right or wrong way to read the stories.

Some people are not used to reading stories. Start at the beginning and read the story in each picture. Encourage the reader to move through the pages at their own pace.
Encourage the person to tell the story in their own words. You will discover what they think is happening, what they already know, and how they feel. If you are using the pictures to help explain a procedure to someone, you may need to describe or clarify the actions being shown in each picture to help them understand. Try not to challenge the reader(s) or suggest their ideas are wrong.
Some pictures may be more difficult to understand. It can help to prompt the people you are supporting, for example:
• Who do you think that is?
• What is happening?
• How is he or she feeling?
• Do you feel like that? Has it happened to you/ your friend/ your family?
Allow people enough time to follow the pictures at their own pace. Allow time for discussion of each picture.
Some people may benefit from reading the larger story from which the extract has been taken. This will allow them to explore their feelings and experiences in more depth. To buy the complete book, follow the link to the bookshop that appears at the end of the story.