Dads can teach us how to tie our shoes, ride a bike, and drive a car. If we’re lucky, our fathers play an important role in many of the milestones of our lives, starting in childhood. But all too often, when it comes to menstrual health and development, a father’s place can become a little less clear. There may be embarrassment, shame, or confusion on both sides – and this can lead to a breakdown in important communication between a daughter and the invaluable support that only her father can provide. As young girls begin to develop, they may start to pull away or naturally try to hide these changes from their dads. The truth is, a dad’s role in this stage is just as important as remembering to put on her helmet before he sends her off on her bike. When a father participates in this formative stage of his daughter’s life, instead of letting her mom handle it, this signifies to the daughter that he accepts her, and will love her as she grows and changes. Because, listen up, dad: this is about way more than momentary discomfort. This is about arming your daughter with the confidence she needs to take on the world, knowing you’ve got her back. And that type of confidence? It only comes with massive amounts of open communication, love, and support. (more…)