When most first periods happen
In the UK, most people get their first period between age 10 and 15, with 12 being the average. It can be earlier or later — both are usually normal.
Signs it might be coming: breast buds have started developing, pubic hair, a growth spurt, and often clear or white discharge in the underwear for a few months before.
Have a small starter kit ready
A zip pouch that lives in her school bag: 2–3 pads, a spare pair of underwear, wet wipes, and a small sandwich bag for the used pair.
At home: a small variety of pads to try (day pads, night pads). Skip tampons and cups for now — she can try those later when she's comfortable.
Pain relief her school allows her to carry (ibuprofen or paracetamol), and a small hot water bottle for home.
What to say — a simple script
"Your body is getting ready to have periods. It might happen this year, it might not happen for a couple of years. Either is fine. When it starts, it means your body is working the way it's meant to."
"If it happens at school, you go to the toilet, put a pad in your underwear, and text me. You can go to the school office if you need help — they've done this a hundred times."
"There's nothing to be embarrassed about, and nothing you'll do wrong."