Some pre-teen girls are starting their periods when they're still at primary school. If your daughter's one of them, how can you help her cope?

Many girls who mature early feel 'different' from their friends. Boys tend to cope better as they feel proud of being bigger, taller and stronger. Reassure her that her peers will soon catch up.

Be positive about changes
Tender breasts, increased body hair, vaginal discharge, period pain and adult body odour can be upsetting. Reinforce your daughter's self-image and support her with positive help.

Don't judge by her appearance
Your daughter may look like an adult but don't expect her to behave like one. Emotional maturity doesn't necessarily keep pace with physical development. Allow her to 'act her age' if she wants to. The fluctuations in emotions that occur during her monthly cycle, may be difficult to deal with at first. She may be weepy and irritable and not understand what is happening to her. Talk to her, buy a good book and discuss its contents with her.

The good news
Children who become physically mature at an early age tend to score higher in IQ tests. On average, each inch above average height translates into two extra points in a standard intelligence test. As an extra bonus, going through puberty early means that your daughter won't have to cope with it all while she's doing her GCSEs. Although she probably won't appreciate this right now, you might! .

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