Hi first time posting here. My daughter (13) was recently diagnosed as being on the spectrum and is considered as 'High functioning ' she got her first period last night and is struggling to accept the change.
I have spent a lot of time since she began puberty preparing her for what having a period is like and answering her questions honestly and with clear language so I thought she would handle getting her period better than she has. She is very tearful at 'no longer being a child' and is embarrassed that this is happening to her. I have explained this happens to all girls and in fact she is the last of her small group of friends to get her period.
I've explained how to use sanitary products though she doesn't have the greatest record in personal hygiene and I'm concerned about her not changing her pads often enough- something I can control when we're together but when she's at school and I'm at work that's not something I can keep an eye on.
Is there any advice on how to handle this in a way that she will understand and accept but without being too condescending?
