ASK DAD TO GET HER A BRA?

Dear Jellybean,

I need ur advice on something. Ok im 13 years old, and I live with my dad( my mom died a couple of years ago) Ok well my problem is that my dad doesn't really seem to realise that im growing up and i kinda neeed to start wearing a bra. Every one in my class has one, even the flat ones, and im not really that flat. I just want to get my dad to realise i need one, because i feel acward asking him, and usally moms are the one to take care of this stuff. so do y have any tips for me?

Dear Writer,

My advice is, talk to your dad just the way you would have talked to your mom. Your dad might be a guy, but first and foremost he is your parent. He loves you and he wants to do everything to help you grow up strong, happy and healthy. Also, your dad probably worries all the time about not knowing how to help "his little girl" with girl-related things like bras, your period, boy questions and other stuff. By going to him and showing him you trust him to take your needs seriously, you will be doing a wonderful thing. Your dad will feel like you trust him enough to help you and make smart decisions, and it will bring you even closer. It will also show your dad that you're not hiding girl stuff from him, and that will make him feel reassured that when you have issues with boys down the road, you'll know that you can come to him with those too.

So approach your dad when he doesn't seem busy, and ask if you can talk to him for a few minutes. You can be honest about being embarrassed - say something like "I'm a bit embarrassed, but a lot of girls in my class are starting to get bras, and I think I need one too. Would you take me to (the department store in your area) this weekend so I can talk to the salesladies there about this?" Don't be surprised if your dad seems a little embarrassed about this too - but trust me, he'll be so glad you talked to him about it. If he seems totally flummoxed (not likely, but possible), you could suggest that you go shopping for a bra with a friend and her mom - and he can stay at home. But the important thing is, you're letting him know what's going on with you - 'cause that will keep you two close.