What's it like to be the new girl? Just Wondering wants to know!

Just Wondering actually sent us two questions and we are answering them both. Why? Because her second question is wonderfully, deliciously kind.

Dear PLS,
Okay, I have two random questions that I want to ask.

#1: Is grade 7 harder than grade 6? (I know duh it's another level higher, But where I live, after grade 6, we have to start running from class to class and we have to play instruments and stuff like that. My school goes from kindergarten-grade 8.

#2: This question is more important to me. I want to know what it feels like to be the new girl. Not because I'm going to be the new girl, but I know that there will be some new girls (and boys) next year and I want to do all that I can to make them feel welcome and comfortable. All I know is that it must feel awkward and you may feel nervous and scared. But I want to REALLY know how it feels so I can help.

Sorry this comment is so long, but thanks for reading it.
Just Wondering

#1: I would say yes, grade 7 will be a little harder, but not incredibly so. Do you agree, Pink Locker girls?

#2: Can I just say that is a beautiful question? If I was going to be the new girl at your school, I would be so happy to know you were thinking of me and wondering how to make me feel welcome and comfortable.

I would say kids who are new will worry about who they'll talk to in those in-between times, like before school, at break times, lunch, on the bus etc. And for a while, I bet you really miss your old school and your old friends. What else, girls? Have you ever been the new girl? What's it like?

Here's more for Just Wondering, advice for kids who are moving.

What Kids Who Are Moving Should Do

Think pink!
Jemma

Itchy-itchy, so what should she do?

We have received LOTS of questions about girls being itchy "down there." We are not sure if it's different girls - all who have a similar itchy problem. Or, it could be one girl who is soooo itchy that she has written in dozens of times. This really might be it because if you're itchy, especially in that particular area, you are MISERABLE and DESPERATE for it to stop.

The good news is that a doctor will be able to help. So what our itchy girl (or girls) needs to do is tell her mom, or another adult who is responsible for taking her to the doctor. Itchy doesn't usually go away on its own. And it could get worse.

It's normal to feel a little funny about bringing it up, but you could say something like, "Mom, I've been feeling itchy and I think I need something for it."

Girls, do you agree?

Think pink!
Jemma

Magazine cover girls: Can you believe what you see?

You probably know that magazines take photos of already lovely-looking girls and women and then use a computer to "fix" any flaws. So a beautiful girl goes from being great to being, possibly, unreal. She might be impossibly thin or have impossibly perfect skin, no bruises on her shin or pimples on her chin. Not like "normal" girls.

But knowing this just isn't enough because when you keep on seeing the images of impossibly perfect girls/women, it sends a message. And the message is: BE PERFECT, OR ELSE!

So girls spend too much time fretting and worrying and examining themselves and comparing themselves. That's time we could be spending doing lots of other things, such as, planning to take over the world, or learning French, or watching tonight's sunset with a friend.

Sooooo... that brings us to Julia Bluhm, an 8th grader from Maine, who started a petition asking Seventeen magazine to put real girls in their magazine. Just one spread a month, she suggested. Forty-six thousand people signed her petition!

Wow, we like the way she thinks. Read more about Julia HERE.

See her online petition HERE.

If you want to add your support, ask a parent if it's OK to sign it. (The form asks for your name and address and you should ask a parent first before giving that out.)

Better yet, ask your mom or dad to sign it, too!

Think pink!
Jemma

Welcome to the FAT-FREE Zone!

I know it is hard not to criticize your own body. Believe me! But we are committed here not to talk badly about ourselves, how we look. For that reason, please don't write in calling yourself fat or ugly. We don't want to print those comments. Everyone has times like that, but we think that it makes things worse, not better, when you to talk yourself down.

Can you think of one or two things you like about yourself or how you look? I can - I'm funny and I have nice hair. Try it. Some people will feel uncomfortable like you're bragging. But REALLY, if you don't like you, who will like you?!

If you've never seen the videos our friend Emily-Anne posts over at her YouTube channel, We Stop Hate, now is great time to view them. I also like this quote that Emily-Anne had on her Facebook site today. It's good to remember to be kind to yourself, too!

Be kind right now and say something nice about yourself. If you feel too funny doing it, have a friend say something nice about you and you say something nice about her.

Think pink!
Jemma

About losing weight

When we asked girls which questions they needed to have answered right away, we received a lot of questions about losing weight. And a number of you were very kind in writing encouraging notes to those girls.

You can look at the questions and responses HERE.

But those questions and answers also made us think very hard about what we do here. There was a lot of pain in the questions from girls who believe they are overweight. And we want to send a very STRONG message about weight and being OK with your body.

1. We are happy if girls want to be healthy. And being at a healthy weight is part of that.
2. Don't assume you weigh too much and need to lose weight. Only a doctor can analyze your height and weight and body type. Ask a parent to see your doctor if you're concerned.
3. Eating healthy (more fruits, vegetables etc.) and being physically active is a good idea for EVERYBODY.
4. But don't try anything extreme. No crazy diets, no skipping meals, and no exercising in a way that's not good for you.
5. Try to avoid extreme thinking, too. Weighing yourself too much. Looking in the mirror to examine flaws and problems too much. Talking all the time about your weight and body size.
6. Accept the body you have and appreciate all the stuff it can do - ride a bike, turn a cartwheel, kick the heck out of a soccer ball. Focus on parts of your appearance that you already like. It's not being conceited to like something about how you look. Hey, your hair looks terrific!

For more advice about healthy weight and healthy habits HERE: What's the Right Weight for Me?

Other positive messages are welcome here, especially if you want to say good things about your body. Treat it kindly - it's the only one you got!

Think pink!
Jemma

A dozen BOY questions

We got 12 boy questions the other day, so let's get started on them!

CaliNeedsHelp says...What do you do if you like two boys?

To Cali, I say it's OK to like two boys. When you're young, you're just figuring out what you like in a person. And especially, if you're not going out with someone, it's fine to be friends and to think happy thoughts about two different boys.


Anonymous says...the guy I like is going to a totally different middle school next year:'(

Aww, that is sad. There's just no substitute for seeing the person you like at school. I would try to think of ways to stay in touch, like maybe in a group event over the summer, like going to the movies, the mall, or a party at someone's house. You could always say you'd like to stay in touch and see if he take the bait!

Anonymous says...Why do I think of my ex-boyfriend, I found out he is a jerk so I dumped him. I hate him now, but I still want him to want me why?

Oh, how I try not to think of boys as jerks, even when they act in completely jerky ways. I guess, now that I know some guys a little better, I see that they have their own problems and issues. So when they act jerky, sometimes it's just because they don't see things exactly as girls do. (I still remember the time I bared my soul to Forrest and he looked at me with the blankest blank look that I've ever seen.)

Of course you want your old boyfriend to still like you. That's normal. And you probably do still like parts of him or some of the good feelings you had when you were with him. But if he's not nice to you, farewell to him! You can be friendly to him. Maybe you'll like-like each other again someday, or maybe you can be friends. 

What have I missed here, Pink Locker girls?

Think pink!
Jemma

Bras: Three girls, three problems

Not surprisingly, many girls are waiting for answers on questions about the PBBs (periods, bras, and boys.) So let's start with the bra questions. Three girls asked three different questions.

A sized said...I really want a padded bra and I measured myself and I'm an A. But, I'm kinda scared to ask my mom for a padded bra because she still thinks in a training bra. What should I do?

My advice to A sized is to find a good time when she's alone with her mom to ask for a new bra. If you feel shy, email or text her. She also can check out this popular post on Moving Up to Cup Bras.

Claudia said...Do you know some places in America that sell GOOD bras with hooks? I mean I see them at places but I don't like them. I have some but they're pullovers. I think they are easier to wear (hooks)


P.S. I am not afraid to ask my mom, I just need some store in AMERICA that I can go to.

THANK YOU

My advice to Claudia is to go to a store that sells bras, where there is a salesperson who can measure you. Ask your mom for ideas on where to go. Sometimes they have special events where they have someone who's an expert in measuring. Once you know your size, you'll probably have to try on a bunch of different sizes and styles. It takes time, but hopefully, you'll find one that feels just right. When you do, ask your mom if you can buy at least two!

Anonymous said...I'm 12, and I don't wear a bra because it feels uncomfortable. I am the oldest girl in my family, and I feel embarassed because my brothers make fun of me. But now my parents told my relatives i don't wear one! HELP!!!

My advice to Anonymous is that it's OK not to wear a bra. Some people really don't like them. You might want to find bra alternatives with clothes that are snug or sheer. You can wear tanks, camisoles, or sports bras.

For the scoop on bras, read this...Breasts and Bras.

Any other bra advice for these girls?

Think pink!
Jemma

What's puberty?

OK, here we go trying to answer as many questions as we can from our most loyal fans!

We counted up 47 so we'll do our best. Here's the first one:

Anonymous said...What's puberty? I heard we get the talk in the 4th grade

Puberty is the medical word for your body growing from a kid to an adult. It happens over a period of years, not all at once. It can start between ages 8 and 13 in girls and includes getting taller, growing body hair, growing breasts and starting with periods.

Get more info here: All About Puberty

Think pink!
Jemma

Still waiting to see YOUR question here?

We've been seeing some posts lately from unhappy girls who are waiting patiently (and impatiently) for us to get to their question. It's no surprise that we can't get to all of them since we've received more than 40,000 questions.

But we want to make you happy. See the happy flowers over there?

So, if you would like us to put your question at the top of the list, repeat your question RIGHT HERE by commenting on this post. Remember that you can always comment anonymously.

Think pink!

Jemma

What's your best advice about crushes?

Brooke sent us this super-sweet message, so we want to help her with her question. What's your very best advice on crushes?

Hey! i know you probably get a lot of emails like this but i just wanna say thank you for helping girls be more comfortable with the whole 'growing up' idea. It sure helped me!

P.S. i have a crush on this guy in my class and i need some advice!

luv,

brooke

Think pink!

Jemma

Padded bathing suits - yes or no?

Summer is coming and our thoughts turn to swimsuits. They're fun and you can do so much fun stuff in them, but they can also stress girls out. Padded swimsuits are controversial.

Some girls like them because they can smooth things out and make them feel less exposed. Other girls like them because they can give them a little more shape if they are on the flat-chested side. But still other people - maybe your mom? - might not like them because they can make a girl look more grown up than she is.

And if you're the kind of girl that likes to be natural, you might not like padded swimsuits because the extra padding feels weird and you know it's not the real you. Take our poll and share your thoughts on the padded swimsuit issue.

Think pink!
Jemma

What to do about hair "down there"

OK, we're getting this question a lot so it's time for an answer.

What should you do about hair "down there?"

First off, it's NORMAL to start growing pubic hair when you're in puberty. If you have a few sparse hairs, you're probably early in the process of puberty. If you have more hairs than you can count, you're farther along in your journey toward looking like a grown up woman.

Secondly, you DO NOT have to do anything about the hair. There seems to be a trend toward removing pubic hair. And it may be one of those things where everyone assumes that everyone else removes theirs and no one wants to be different. But it isn't necessary or required. You don't have to and you shouldn't feel pressure to.

Thirdly, there are some good reasons to leave that part of your body alone. Learning to shave is tricky enough on underarms and legs. Shaving your private parts is trickier still. You could cut yourself - OUCH! Some girls have written in asking about hair removal creams. But I looked at one of the most popular products and it said not to use the cream on that particular area.

Fourthly, your body naturally grows pubic hair. So it may be QUITE A BOTHER to keep on removing something that your body is going to be growing for years to come. Yes, lots of women decide to shave their underarms and legs, but do you really need another hassle?

With summer getting closer, some of the concerns I'm hearing have to do with how girls look in bathing suits. Though it's possible for pubic hair to also creep into the inner thigh area, it's not very common in younger girls. If that is a problem for you, talk to your mom about how to safely remove the hair from your inner thighs for bathing suit season.

What do you think Pink Locker girls? Any thoughts on this, ahem, private topic?

Think pink!
Jemma

When it's serious...

Below, we're republishing a blog post from 2010 to remind everyone how to find help when a problem is serious. Lately, we have received a few blog comments like that. A few girls have written to say they feel very sad. Others have written with medical questions like: What do I do about these funny red bumps I have? In both cases, it's important to get help from a grownup! And here's the original post if you'd like to check it out:

A Serious Siutation

Hi all,

Most of the comments and the questions we get have to do with ordinary problems. But once in a while, we get a comment or a question that is more serious. If you feel you have a problem that's too big for you to handle, please ask a grownup for help.

Here are grownups you can turn to:

1. Your parents

2. Other relatives: A grandmother, aunt, uncle, and other members of your family can be good people to turn to.

3. A school counselor: They are trained to help kids and will probably have ideas for what steps you can take next.

4. A crisis hotline: A crisis hotline is a phone number you can call and talk with someone if you feel you are in a serious situation and you don't know what else to do. The people who answer the phone will try to get you help, if you need it.

Think pink!
Jemma

Here's a first: A MOM wrote to our blog!

OK, so this blog comment really stuck out. The writer wasn't asking about periods, bras, or boys. She was a MOM writing to say that she's worried her daughter doesn't ask her for advice anymore.

Here's her comment:

Dear Jemma, I am a mother and believe that you are doing a brilliant job. However, perhaps you should tell the girls, frequently, that a mother is the best source of advice. It saddens me to see so many young women who don't feel able to talk to their parents...so many are turning to the Internet more. My daughter used to talk to me everyday, but started using this website. Consequently, she no longer tells me anything. She does not ask me for advice, she does not want me to know her personal things. I don't even know whether she has had her period or not! Please reinforce the saying "mother knows best", as it is true. Girls, your mother had to go through this too- but it was a lot easier. Why? Because we talked to OUR mums. Turn to your mum first, Internet second. Keep up the good advice.
Regards,
Elizabeth

The good news is that we often recommend that girls talk to their moms. In fact, the post that Elizabeth commented on was a post that included that advice.

Katie got her period TODAY!

But we're happy to repeat that it's great to get advice from people in your life who love you. And M-O-M is a perfect choice for many girls.

What do you say Pink Locker girls? Do you ask your mom for advice? If not, why not?

Think pink!
Jemma

Our fastest response yet! Because Katie got her period TODAY

We received this question about 2 hours and 15 minutes ago, but it needs a fast answer so we're squeezing it in tonight.

Dear PLS,
I started my period today and I was to afraid to tell my mom or my teacher.What do I do?
Katie, 13

Our answer will be quick, too. YOU NEED TO TELL YOUR MOM.

Getting a first period is perfectly normal and means your body is growing up, just like it's supposed to. It's OK, if you feel shy about it. It is a personal detail. You don't have to tell the world, but do tell your mom so that she can help you get the supplies you need. You also might have questions that come up and, being that she's a girl, she'll probably have the answers.

If you just can't get the words out, write her a note, or send her a text.

Think pink!
Jemma 

She's not a girly-girl, she's Miss Understood

It's not easy being a girl sometimes. Miss Understood needs some help. She's had some trouble with bullying and feels like her body is changing too fast.

Dear PLS,
I'm not your girly kind of girl and other kids like that make fun of me because i listen to rock and i dont dress in pink and flowery what ever. I've been through the whole bullying faze because of how i dressed and how short my hair was. I also need help because My body is growing too fast and guys are starting to notice...older guys...i hang out with guys and now they're staring...creeper?much.
Miss Understood

First things first. If you're being bullied, tell an adult. Second, there's lots of room in the world for different types of girls. I was just at a talent show where plenty of girls sang sweet, sad Taylor Swift songs, but other girls dressed up in silly costumes and did a skit. One really great act featured a girl who did a karate routine to her favorite song. Hi-yaaa!

We've had other Pink Locker girls write in to say they didn't want to grow up so fast. You can't stop your body from growing and changing. But you can tell boys - or anyone else - if they are making you uncomfortable. Sometimes, when you're growing, you might need larger clothes - shirts that don't cling so much, looser pants, a bigger bra. That can help you feel more comfortable and confident. If you don't have a big budget for new clothes, try hand-me-downs from older siblings, cousins, or friends.

Any other advice for Miss Understood?

Think pink!
Jemma

Saturday hairstyle fun!

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

If you can stand the commercial beforehand, this video clip has some pretty cute hairstyles. Easy too!

I know you girls like hair stuff. Remember this post on graduation hair styles and a favorite post on putting your hair up with a pencil!

Think pink!
Jemma

Leaks happen & Love Pink needs major tips!

Periods are a perfectly natural part of being a young woman, but they also come with some challenges. Love Pink has run right smack into one:

Hey girls. I am on my 2nd period now, and last night my pad leaked all over my underwear cuz all the pads r weird. How can I prevent this? I was wearing a really big pad already so that it wouldn't leak, but It didn't work. I don't want to wear those giant overnight pads cuz those r WAY too big!!! What do all u other girls wear at night when u r on ur periods. I need MAJOR tips!!
Love Pink

So it's a drag, but leaks do happen. They happen with pads if the pad is not in exactly the right spot and they can happen with tampons, too. Gravity is your friend when wearing a pad in the day when you're mostly sitting up and standing up. But overnight is tough because you're laying down and gravity may take your menstrual flow in the wrong direction. Here are some tips:

• Try different kinds of pads - some are bigger, smaller, have various shapes and come with wings to wrap around the underwear - or not.
• Be sure that your underwear fits snugly so that the pad stays in place, as best as possible.
• Put on a fresh pad just before bed so that it has maximum absorbency.

If leaks still happen once in a while, don't sweat it. Rinse out underwear, clothes or sheets in cold water, treat with stain remove and wash right away.
 
Any other bedtime tips, Pink Locker girls?

Think pink!
Jemma

For EmmaRose: Some period info

Periods are endlessly confusing because they don't arrive on a set schedule. There's no magic age - some girls are earlier and some are later. EmmaRose has some early signs, but she's kind of tapping her foot, waiting for Aunt Flo to arrive.

Hey, PLS.
I have had discharge for over 8 months. I have heard that you are supposed to have discharge for about 6 months before you get your period. My doctor said I am getting my period in 2 years. I am not sure of whom to believe. (By the way, I have other signs too. I have pubic hair, I'm going through a growth spurt, I have breast "buds", a few pimples, I sweat more, my hips are bigger, I have to shower more often, and I get mood swings. So I basically have all of the signs, right?)
EmmaRose, 10

The average age for a first period is still about 12 for most girls. So it sounds like your doctor is saying you're right on track for that. In addition to discharge, doctors also say that a first period often comes begins about 2 to 2½ years after breast development starts.


It's normal to be a little impatient, but you can't rush nature. Be prepared, ask questions of knowledgeable people (like your doctor and your mom), and hang in there!

Think pink!
Jemma

Sweety is a sweetie!

We've received 40,000 questions from girls, but we're always happy to get a compliment in our email box. Thanks to Sweety for sending such a great "statement!"

Statement: i just LOVE your books and that you help tons of girls in the world with their problems. i wish i could give advice like that. Thanks again for helping the girls of the world!
Sweety, 11

Embarrassing moments: We ALL have them!

If you asked me my most embarrassing moment, I would turn 10 shades of red as I told you about my Valentine's Day Mistake. I liked a certain boy and I found a way to sneak into his locker and fill his coat pockets with Sweeheart conversation hearts. You know, the ones that say "Be Mine" etc.?

Did he say thanks? Did he confess his crush on me? Uh, no. He never said anything at all.

So maybe that's why I just love-love-loved this comment we received yesterday. She shares a blush-worthy moment and that helps us all feel a little bit better about our blush-worthy moments. Rock on, laser tag bra girl!

I don't know why, but I'm gunna share a REALLY REALLY embarassing moment with you guys. Ok so I was at my friends birthday party and we were going to play lazer tag. I was wearing a thin blue shirt with a white sports bra. when we were outside, you couldn't even tell I was wearing a bra so I was fine... that was until we went inside!!!!!!!!!! the second that we walked in, My bra was as bright as the snow and it was the only thing you could see on me!!!! I WAS SO EMBARASSED! I was covering myself so much! But wait, it gets worse! there was a boy our age there and I think he saw! I almost died!!!
-Anonymous

What about you? Do you have an embarrasing moment? Or do you just want to say thanks to laser tag bra girl for sharing hers?

Think pink!
Jemma

P.S. Happy Valentine's Day to everyone, even that long-ago crush with coat pockets full of Sweethearts!

Question 34: Kamryn needs some yoga

We loooooove yoga. It feels great and it helps you destressify. Kamryn wants some of that feel-good stretching! Just one caution. Yoga shouldn't hurt so take it easy. To learn to do poses right, it's best to take a class with a qualified instructor.

Dear PLS,
So, I do a lot of volleyball, 2 hours a day 6 days a week. And I could really use relaxing time, so could you give me examples of yoga poses??? Thank you!!!!
Kamryn, 12

We have two great yoga sequences for you. Check 'em out:

Welcome Home Yoga

Study Break Yoga

How about you? Do you do yoga? What are your favorite poses?

Think pink!
Jemma

Emergency Valentine help for ViolinGirl!

To give a Valentine or not give a Valentine? That's the big question as we get closer and closer to February 14.

What's your opinion? ViolinGirl doesn't know what to do.

Dear PLS,

I need help now!!!!! I have this crush I really, really, really like. He is cute and funny and nice. We talk and I need to know whether I should give him a valentine??? I have ways I could give it without him seeing or I could just hand it to him. What should I do????!!!!!

ViolinGirl

It depends on how daring ViolinGirl is feeling. If you give it to him secretly, and he says nothing about it, you will never know if he liked it or was embarrassed by it or whatever. If you give it to him in person, he may be so surprised and embarrassed that you may get embarrassed, too. He may be thrilled, but you have to prepare for something less than thrilled.

This article is very helpful about Valentine's Day issues:

Girls, Boys & Valentine's Day

What other Valentine's Day advice or questions do you have?

Think pink!

Jemma

Questions 27 and 31: Two period questions for Maddy and Doremi

I hope, by now, everyone is getting the message: A gajillion girls have questions about periods! Here are two more:

Maddy, 11, says simply: I haven't had my periods yet. And Doremi (love that name Do-Re-Mi) asks this:

Dear PLS,
What should I do when I start my first period?
Doremi,11

Basically, I think Maddy and Doremi have the same question. What do you do when you get your first period? We've talked a lot about being prepared, having supplies etc., but we haven't talked as much about what to do when you're having your period for the first time. Here are my best Dos and Don'ts.

1. Tell someone. This is often your mom or grandma or the person who takes care of you most of the time. You need supplies and you might have questions, so don't be so shy that you keep this to yourself. 

2. Try to relax. Think of how many women have had their first periods. That's like, everyone, including your best friend's older sister, the lady next door, famous celebrities, top athletes, and yes, your mom.

3. Take time to learn. Girls stress about tampons, but first take some time to understand pads. Gee, there are a lot of kinds! Girls often ask how you know which way it goes. Some are shaped where there could be a top and a bottom, but others can go either way. And always with the sticky side down! That's how it sticks to your underwear. Girls also ask what to do with a used pad. Never flush one down the toilet. It will clog the whole deal. Most people roll it up, wrap it in toilet paper, and put it in the trash.

4. Be organized. Take extra pads, even pack an extra pair of pants if that helps you feel prepared. Jot down the date you started your period, so you know to expect it in about a month. Though be prepared that your period could be a little unpredictible the first few times you have it.

5. Don't cry over stained underwear. If your underwear or pants get stained, just take care of it and stay cool. Most stains will come out if you hand wash them right away in the sink with cold water and mild soap. Get them as clean as you can, wring out the water, and then wash them in the washing machine. 

6. Don't let your period get in the way. Your period might feel so weird and new that you might think: How can I go to soccer practice? Or even school? But you can and should keep up with your normal routine. Always tell a parent if you don't feel well, but if it's just your period, play on! (Once you have the hang of it, you can try tampons, which make it easier to play sports, even swim.)

Any other advice out there for Maddy and Doremi?

Think pink!
Jemma

Alana thanks us and we...thank Alana!

We have received 40,000 questions from girls over the past few years. Most are seeking advice and we're happy to give it. But Alana made our day with the simple email below.

Thank YOU Alana for writing such a lovely note!

I know you go through emails like this every day, but thanks. Last year, I was on this site because of my period. One year later, im back on because of my first real crush. I just want to say thanks.

Alana

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 30: How can you get organized?

Sometimes I look in my backpack or closet and think: Will I ever get organized? That's what GrammarGeek is wondering about:

Dear PLS,
How do I keep myself more organized? I am always falling behind with my homework, and it's really troublesome. I hate using an agenda and I never use it...

Thanks!
GrammarGeek, 12

I say GrammarGeek is on her way to being better organized. Why? Because she realizes that it's a problem and she's looking for ways to improve. Here's the best advice I've seen on the subject.

Take the quiz to see how organized - or disorganized - you are!

Organize, Focus, Get It Done

Take the Organization Quiz

OK, Pink Locker Girls, what's your best advice for clearing the clutter and getting organized?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 29: Do you have a crush on a famous person?

Singers, actors, pro athletes...they can be soooooo dreamy. Even though you don't actually know them. That's what's on Katy's mind. Here's her question:

Dear PLS,
What if you've got a crush on someone famous?
Katy, 11

First off, Katy is NOT alone. I have crushed on some celebrities. It's kinda perfect. You can think about them and dream about them, but it's not really real life. The only time it might be a problem is if it gets too extreme, but most people keep it under control. Even if they REALLY like the celebrity, they still keep doing their normal life stuff, like going to school and hanging out with friends. 

All this is making me think of the post we shared about Justin Bieber. Beliebers and nonBelieblers, tell us about your celebrity crushes! Any funny stories? I know someone who kissed a poster on her wall of a certain cute celebrity.

Think pink!
Jemma

Questions 26 & 28: 2 period Qs for Tracy

It's two questions for Tracy today - both about periods.

Dear PLS,
My sister is going through puberty. Will she get diarrhea or cramps in her period?
&
What if I don't have a pad or tampon when i get a period[like in the car]?
Tracy, 9

Good questions! Yes, sometimes cramps in your lower belly go along with periods. Your sister should definitely tell your mom or another adult if she has period cramps. Talking with the doctor is a good idea, too. There may be steps you can take to feel more comfortable. Bottom line: Your period shouldn't get in the way of you doing what you want to do.

Find out more about cramps at the link below:

Period Cramps

As for diarrhea (yuck!), it's can be part of PMS, which stands for premenstrual syndrome. That's a combination of symptoms that can happen 1-2 weeks before a girl's period starts.

Find out more at the link below:

Common Period Problems

And now for Tracy's second question about being someplace AWKWARD, like the car, when you get your period. It happens, but the good news is that usually you have a sign - like feeling something - so you can simply tell whoever's driving that you need to go the bathroom.

Part 2 is always having a pad or tampon with you. If you get caught without one, you can always stop in a convenience store, grocery store, or pharmacy and pick up a box. If you're nervous about asking, just say, "I have to pick up some feminine products." Most everyone will catch your drift.

Any other advice for Tracy?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 25: Do tampons hurt?

Today's question comes from Curious, who says she's curious about tampons. She's not alone, tons of girls send us questions about tampons. Why? Well, it's a strange concept at first. I mean I know I was like - say, what? I'm going to put that WHERE?

But the good news is that, when used properly, tampons are a good thing. Here's what Curious wants to know.

Dear PLS,
Do tampons hurt??? i am just starting puberty and i ride and love to swim...
Curious, 10
 
No need to worry. With tampons, you want to follow these rules:
 
1)Stay calm.
2)Ask for help from someone who knows how to use one (your mom, sister, etc.).
3)Buy the right kind for you. Slender ones are best for girls starting out.
4)Only try to insert one when you have your period.
5)Remember that tampons should be removed and changed every four hours or so.
6)Don't let your period stop you from swimming and riding!
 
And if you need more convincing, check out this popular post about whether you really need a tampon for swimming. The answer is a big YES!
 
Can you wear a pad in the pool?
 
Any other encouragement about using tampons?
 
Think pink!
Jemma
 

Question 24: Is it OK to meet guys online?

Amy doesn't give us too much information, but it sounds like she has a boyfriend she met online. This can happen very easily today with Facebook, texting etc. But it isn't a good idea to get super close to someone you've never met in person.

Dear PLS,
i have a boyfriend and we both love each other alot. But the problem is i have never met him face to face, i mean i know how he looks and all but i'm afraid he won't like me back the way i look!! and we are like meeting each other tomorrow!! what should i do?? please help me because i can't stop freaking out!
Amy, 14

OK, Amy, Here are my rules for staying safe:

1)Don't start relationships - even friendships - just through the computer or texting. Someone could pretend to be a nice 14-year-old guy, but could really be a creepy 40-year-old guy. Not good.

2)Only have online or texting conversations with people you know well and have met in person. Do not share info like your phone number, address, or where you go to school with strangers.

3)NEVER agree to meet a stranger in person, even if they seem nice online or have a cute photo.

Sorry this post is a bit of a downer, but better safe than sorry! Can you back me up here, Pink Locker girls?

Think pink!
Jemma

Question 22: Sarah's got a crush problem

Friends like to share lots of things but they don't like sharing crushes very much. Check out Sarah's question.


Dear PLS,
My friend is convinced I like her crush, but I don't. She won't believe me + my other friend is getting her period soon and she's worried. What do I say?
Sarah, 10


Sarah has two questions here, but let's take on the first one. It sounds to me like you've already told your friend you're not crushing on her crush. Keep acting normal and try to move on. If you do like the same guy, that's OK. It happens. But maybe it's best to keep it a quiet crush. In time, you and your friend may move on and have a different crush.


Any other advice about friends and crushes? Have you ever liked your friend's crush?


Think pink!
Jemma

 

Question 21: Jenny's parents say she can't paint her fingernails red

Don't you just love a good manicure? Jenny sure does, but there's a problem. She wants red nails and her mom and dad say NO.

Dear PLS,
What should I dooo ??????????? I want to wear red nail polish. My parents won't let me? Please help me! And pleeeasee don't tell anyone.
Jenny, 10

I think red nail polish is fun, but I understand Jenny's situation. I think she should talk more to her parents about it. Can they agree on a not-too-bright shade of red? What if she agrees to wear it only the weekend and take it off for school? Is there another color, like purple or pink, that they would say yes to? Or, as a last resort, when will they think she's old enough for red polish?
 
You have to be calm and reasonable because parents really like that.
 
Any other nail polish ideas out there?
 
Think pink!
Jemma

Question 20: Brianne wants to play violin

Bravo, Brianne! Playing a musical instrument is great idea. But Brianne's plan to play beautiful music has a bit of a problem. See if you have any advice for her!


Dear PLS,
I really, really want to take violin lessons, but they are too expensive. What should I do?
Brianne, 11


Has this ever happened to you? You really, really, REALLY wanted to do something but your mom or dad said no, it was too expensive? It sounds like that's what's happening to Brianne. Here's my idea for how she can still keep her violin dreams.


I think Brianne should tell her music teacher at your school about the problem. Does he or she have any ideas on how you could get lower-cost lessons? What about the band teacher (if they have one) or the school counselor?


Maybe there's a music school in town that offers scholarships to worthy students? Any other ideas out there? Does anyone play an instrument? Let's encourage Brianne!


Think pink!
Jemma

2012: What are your goals for the new year?

OK, I can't bear to end 2011 writing about discharge. (See post  below.) It's a fact of life, yes, but it's not New Year's Eve-y enough for me. So let's switch topic to HAPPY NEW YEAR! See video for a sweet New Year's Eve song.

But tomorrow, the parties will be over and the new year will have begun. What is your top goal for 2012? I am pledging to update this blog more often! Is that a good idea? ;)

Your resolution can be small, like not biting your nails or not picking on your little brother/sister. Or you might have big plans like learning something completely new. Will you learn a new language, tackle a new sport, learn how to cook or work harder to get better grades?

Good luck with all your hopes and dreams for the new year. And remember that you can always visit the Pink Locker Society for advice and encouragement. Thank you for another great year of giving good advice and listening to one another's concerns.

Think pink in 2012!
Jemma

Heavy discharge: Is it a clue about her first period?

Today's question is tricky...

Does it mean ur gonna get ur period soon when u start getting really bad discharge or does it just come in spurts!! I've had discharge 4 a while but lately it has been worse, what should I do?? DOES IT MEAN IM GONNA GET MY PERIOD?? And, is discharge worse that ur period, cuz it is already a pain!!

Let's start with the fact that discharge IS a sign that a girl's period may be on it's way soon. It usually appears about 6 months to a year before a girl's first period. But I've never heard of the discharge amount being a clue that a first period is going to happen, like, IMMEDIATELY. So I'd relax and stay prepared.

Here's a link to one of our most popular posts all about this topic.

What's in my undies?

Think pink!
Jemma