Middle school educator Jamie Thompson is making the transition into womanhood a little less daunting.
Ladies, can we take a moment to reminisce about that unforgettable first period? I remember mine well—at a crowded basketball tournament, my mom presented me with a clunky maxi pad from a vending machine and made a scene in the public restroom by exclaiming how I was now “a woman.” I swear, I wanted to disappear.
Despite the fact that over half the population menstruates, the initial experience can still be super awkward. Thankfully, one middle school teacher is taking steps to ease that discomfort for her students.
Jamie Thompson, who teaches at Crestview Academy, recently posted on social media about the delightful “menstruation care kits” she prepares for her students who get their unexpected visits from Aunt Flo. Using stylish makeup bags from the subscription service Ipsy, she fills each one with pads, tampons, panty liners, and individually wrapped wet wipes.
“The students know they can come and ask for a kit, and they receive a cute bag with everything they need inside,” she shared. “It’s discreet and much more enjoyable than being handed a bulky pad. I encourage them to take whatever they need for the day and even check if they want some to take home.”
Isn’t that a fantastic idea? Having a pretty bag filled with supplies would have certainly taken away some of the embarrassment from my first experience. It’s a small gesture that helps girls navigate this challenging milestone of growing up.
“I’ve been teaching since 2005 and started this initiative last year as a simple way to alleviate a potentially awkward moment,” Thompson explained. “It would be wonderful for parents to create similar kits for their teens and provide them to teachers as well!”
Parents, take note: these kits would be a fantastic addition to your child’s school! Thompson felt inspired to share her idea as the school year began, wishing to encourage others to adopt this thoughtful practice.
For more creative ideas, check out our post on home insemination kits, which could also inspire supportive gestures for parents. And for further insights on this topic, visit this authority on imagination.
Lastly, if you’re looking for excellent resources regarding pregnancy and home insemination, the Center for Reproductive Health is a great place to start.
In summary, Jamie Thompson’s initiative to provide menstruation kits to students is a thoughtful way to help ease the sometimes awkward experience of getting one’s first period. By offering a discreet and fun solution, she’s making a meaningful impact on her students’ lives.