This year we have to change for gym. I hate changing 'cause I'm a lot more developed than the other girls.

Also, when we swim I might be on my period. How do I tell that to my gym teacher? She's female but I'm still so nervous to say something!

Being more developed than the other girls is not something to be embarrassed about or ashamed of. Your body clock might be a bit faster than the other girls and that's totally OK. Soon enough everyone else is gonna go through the same changes and you can be there to help and support them since you've already gone through it all.

Don't fret about changing in front of them either. I'm sure every girl in your class is thinking the same thing. All the gals are gonna be so focused on keeping themselves in the shadows that they aren't even going to be paying attention to your bod.

Use a towel for privacy if you want to keep yourself covered up. Tie it around your waist while you're changing into shorts. Knot it under your top above your chest and just under your armpits to cover up while changing into your t-shirt or tank top for gym class. You'll get the gist of changing soon enough and learn other methods to put on tops over the top you are wearing and removing one arm at a time while you're changing so that you never have to be nervous.

As for swimming? Try using tampons. They'll provide protection and allow you to swim whole you're on your period. If you don't feel comfy using them and don't wanna hit the pool while you're on your period, just talk to your gym teacher. She went through the same thing when she was younger and is bound to understand where you are coming from. And don't be embarrassed because most of the girls in your class will be going through this, too!

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11/12/2009 7:00:00 AM