Emergencies aren’t just about localized weather events or job losses but can be much more personal. And what’s more personal to a girl than her period? Consider a DIY Period Emergency Kit for your preteens to have stored in her locker or backpack for just such times.
I bet many of us can say that puberty was one of the worst phases of our lives. The shame, the uncertainty, the ridicule — all leaving us feeling like we were the biggest losers in the world, even though every other kid was going through the same thing. And it’s even worse when we are young, inexperienced, and are going through it alone.
Not all of us were graced with moms who were open and forthcoming about this aspect of our lives. Not all of us have moms who can be relied upon to share this information. I’m sharing it for those who can’t ask, those who don’t have someone to ask, and you might need to move along if this is a ‘trigger subject’ for you. Considering that this is a subject that affects 50%+ of the world’s population, a DIY Period Emergency kit is definitely something women need to think about for themselves and their daughters, and frankly, Dads, you do, too!
Tip: Let your daughter pick out a cute, opaque, cosmetic pouch to put this in, which she can then store in her backpack, purse or locker.
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DIY Period Emergency Kit for Girls
Deodorant
Because puberty does weird things to a body, a small travel sized deodorant (or deodorant wipes) is good for a refresher during the day when yours just gives out. If you, like me, make your own deodorant, you can keep some in a small travel container like this.
Pads or Tampons
Keep a couple of her choice of menstrual product in a baggie. For those just starting, a panty liner is usually sufficient. However, you should still keep a few pads and tampons in your period emergency kit because you know she’ll want to change often, just because. More and stronger methods can be stored as the needs arise.
If you are so inclined and want to combine this with a homemaking skill, learn how to make your own pads. Or introduce her to the idea of a menstrual cup (you’d still want the backup kit, just in case!)
• RELATED: Make an Emergency Preparedness Kit for School
Hydrogen Peroxide
This was a tip my mother-in-law told me years ago. I use a travel-sized, pump hairspray bottle that is dark in color. Fill it with hydrogen peroxide to spray on any stained area of undergarment and clothes to help stains from setting. Rinsing the garment under cold water is always best, but it’s not discreet and might leave you with wet clothes to deal with.
Wipes
A travel-size package of wipes (flushable if preferred) for discreet cleanup. It’s also good for quick cleanup after gym class or recess if there’s just no time for a shower or if she is just too embarrassed to take a shower.
Underwear
It’s helpful to have a change of underwear or two just in case.
Change of Pants
Shorts or other bottoms depending on the weather and situation, again, just in case.
Hand Warmers
Since many schools don’t allow students to medicate or treat themselves, some girls find it embarrassing to go to the nurse’s office to ask for help. Or, you just might not be in a place where that help is available. Inexpensive hand warmers might be just the thing. It’s a quick, easy, portable heating pad. It’s a bit awkward, but it can be done.
Pain relievers
Since most schools do not allow students to self-medicate, you have to decide what to do for your own child. I cannot tell you to go ahead and include a small package of pain relief in her emergency kit. Travel sized packages are discreet and easy to tuck in a pocket. If nothing else, make sure the school nurse has a note allowing your child to ask for a pain reliever when she may need it.
• RELATED: 10 Back to School Emergency Preparedness for Kids
Loose Change
If your school offers machines in the restrooms for menstrual products, or if she is out on a field trip or away from home, having a dollar or two in quarters can help save an awkward situation.
Hair Clips and Ties
This is not ’emergency’ so much as sometimes you just feel yucky and you need to pull up your hair. It just helps.
Mints
Nothing like freshening your breath when nothing else feels fresh as a daisy.
Chocolate
As Remus Lupin tells Harry Potter, “Here. Eat it. It’ll help.” Chocolate makes you feel better, but did you know that dark chocolate does offer a bit of pain relief?
Extra bag
Keep an extra bag, whether a zip-top bag, a grocery bag or the like to be able to keep soiled clothes in to bring home, and keep from getting everything else wet or stained. A cute wet/dry bag can keep things more discreet.
Of course, this period emergency kit can be used for girls of any age, to keep in a car, a backpack, a desk drawer or wherever you spend time. It’s always good to be prepared. Are there things that you or your daughters found helpful for that kind of emergency?
Tip 2: This makes a great scouting project for girls!
To learn even more about long-term preparedness for personal hygiene for girls and women, click HERE to learn more.
