If you’ve ever tried to explain the menopause to a 5 year old, you know how difficult it can be. It’s an incredibly complex and serious topic that needs to be communicated with care. But at the same time, how do you explain something so complicated in a way that is easy for them to understand?
It can be an awkward conversation to have with an adult, let alone a child and all too often, women are ill-equipped to explain this delicate topic. However, understanding the menopause is important and it doesn’t have to be complex or uncomfortable.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to break it down for your little ones and help them understand without scaring them.
Introduce the Topic
The first step is to introduce the topic of menopause in an age-appropriate way. A great way to do this is by using analogies or metaphors. You could tell your child that menopause is a bit like when they were learning how to ride their bike – it was a big change but eventually they learned how to do it. This analogy will give your child a better understanding of what you’re talking about without getting too technical.
Break Down the Basics
Once you’ve introduced the concept of menopause, you can start breaking down the basics in simple terms. Explain that menopause happens when a woman’s body starts changing and she stops getting her period every month. You don’t need to go into too much detail here; just keep it general enough that they understand what’s happening without becoming overwhelmed or scared.
Use Simple Terms
When discussing the menopause with a child, it’s important to keep your language simple and jargon-free. Avoid using technical terms like “perimenopausal” or “hormone fluctuations” and instead focus on explaining that their parent is experiencing physical changes due to growing older. Explain that these changes can cause their parent to feel tired or emotional at times, but remind them that these feelings are normal and nothing to be afraid of.
Be Open & Honest
It can be tempting to shy away from difficult conversations with children but when it comes to discussing something as important as the menopause, it’s essential for them (and you) to feel comfortable talking about it openly and honestly. If they ask questions – which they almost certainly will – encourage them by answering those questions in age appropriate language that they can understand. Be sure to answer any questions they have openly and honestly, without shying away from difficult topics such as hormones or hot flashes. Don’t be afraid of repeating yourself until they fully understand; after all, educating our children should always come first. Honesty is always the best policy when it comes to talking with kids about delicate topics like the menopause.
Explain How You Feel
Explaining how you feel throughout this process is just as important as explaining what is happening during the menopause itself. Talk openly about how you feel when you experience physical symptoms such as hot flashes or night sweats and encourage your child not only to sympathise but also empathise with what you are going through. This will help them better understand not only what is happening during this time in your life but also how best they can support you throughout it.
Create a Visual Aid or Story
Creating a visual aid or story is one of the best ways to explain the menopause to your child. This could mean creating an age-appropriate picture book about the topic or using props such as dolls and stuffed animals. Visual aids also work well for non-verbal children who may have difficulty understanding spoken language. Additionally, stories are often more relatable than facts and figures, making it easier for your child to process what they’re hearing.
Use Age-Appropriate Language
Make sure that you use language that your child will understand. Avoid medical terms and jargon, which can easily confuse young minds. Instead, choose simpler words and phrases which are easier for them to comprehend. Additionally, try not to overwhelm them with too much information at once; instead break down complex topics into smaller chunks which are easier for them to process.
Answer Their Questions
At this point, your child may have some questions about menopause, so be sure to answer them in an honest but age-appropriate manner. Reassure them that although these changes are happening now, there is nothing wrong with their mum and she will still be around for years and years.
Menopause can be difficult for adults to understand, never mind children, especially those who are only toddlers. However, with patience and understanding from both sides, you can successfully explain this transition in life in a way that won’t confuse or scare your little ones. By introducing the topic with analogies and metaphors before breaking down the basics in simple terms and answering any questions they may have honestly but age appropriately; you’ll have no problems explaining menopause to even the youngest of children.
Explaining the menopause doesn’t have to be intimidating; with a little bit of preparation (and patience), it can actually be quite rewarding. Taking time out of your day to talk openly and honestly with your child about the menopause will help foster a stronger bond between you while also teaching them valuable lessons about understanding their body and respecting others who may go through similar changes in life.
By creating visual aids or stories, being honest and open with your child, and using age-appropriate language when discussing this topic, you can make sure that your little one has all of the information they need – in a way they can understand. And remember – there is no “right answer” when it comes to talking about this subject – just do what feels right for your family.
So don’t hesitate – let’s get talking!
.
