Hi, I think dating someone just to get over another boy is a little unfair on the new boy. 💜 It probably won't make your crush disappear, and if he starts to really like you, he could end up getting hurt if your heart is still focused on someone else.

My advice would be to stay busy with friends, family, hobbies, and all the things you enjoy. Crushes on people who are already taken can take time to fade, and that's completely normal. The more full and fun your own life is, the less space that crush tends to take up in your thoughts.

As for this boy your friend knows, it's absolutely okay to chat and get to know him as a friend if you'd like to. Just be honest with yourself about your feelings and don't feel pressured to start dating anyone. Friendships are a great way to meet new people, and who knows, you might make a new friend, even if it doesn't turn into anything more💕

Hi, yes, it can be completely normal to be constipated on your period. 💜

Period hormones can affect your digestive system in different ways. Some people get what's often called "period poos" because the hormones that help your body shed the uterine lining can also make the bowels work faster. Others find the opposite happens and they become a bit constipated.

If you're feeling blocked up, try adding a little more fibre to your diet with foods like fruit, vegetables, wholegrain cereals, and oats. Drinking plenty of water can also make a big difference, as can gentle exercise such as walking.

The good news is that period-related constipation is usually temporary and should ease as your period progresses. If it's very painful, lasts a long time, or happens every month and is affecting your daily life, it's worth chatting with a parent, trusted adult or healthcare professional about it.💕

Hi, I completely understand wanting to experiment with makeup at 12...lots of girls become curious about it around your age. 💖 Before you start, it's a good idea to talk to your parents or the person who cares for you and see how they feel about it, as every family has different rules and expectations.

If they're happy for you to give it a try, I'd suggest starting with simple, natural-looking products such as a tinted lip balm, a little blusher, or a light coat of mascara. These can be a fun way to explore makeup without looking or feeling too different from yourself.

I'd avoid heavy products like foundation, concealer, contouring, or primer for now. During puberty, your skin is already changing and producing more oil, which can sometimes lead to spots and blackheads. Keeping your makeup light and making sure you cleanse your face each evening is the best way to look after your skin while you're experimenting 💕

Hi, you definitely don't need special programmes or events to meet someone you like. The best way to find a girlfriend is the same as it is for anyone else, focus on making friends, getting to know people, and building genuine connections with those who share your interests. Whether it's through school, clubs, sports, or online communities that are safe and age-appropriate, friendships are often where crushes begin. 💜

As you get to know people, you may find yourself naturally gravitating towards certain girls, and sometimes they'll give subtle signs that they might like girls too. There's no rush to figure everything out straight away. Take your time, be yourself, and enjoy getting to know people without putting pressure on finding a relationship.

Remember, being gay is just one part of who you are. The right person will like you for your personality, your sense of humour, and the things that make you you. Focus on building your confidence and your friendships, and if romance happens along the way, that's a lovely bonus.✨💕

Hi 💜 During puberty, it's completely normal to feel more sensitive than usual. Your hormone levels are changing, which can affect your emotions and make you react more strongly to things that normally wouldn't bother you. You might even notice your mood changing several times throughout the day.

When you're feeling upset by someone's comment or behaviour, try not to jump to conclusions straight away. Taking a step back and giving yourself a little time can really help. Sometimes, when you look back on the situation later, you'll realise that no harm or unkindness was intended.

Remember that being sensitive isn't a flaw, it's just part of who you are. Be kind to yourself, and if your feelings are becoming overwhelming or making everyday life difficult, don't be afraid to talk to a parent, trusted adult, or friend about how you're feeling. 💜

Hi, most pads can be worn for 8 hours or longer so night pads are ideal for when sleeping as they are longer and will hold more period blood. Pop a fresh one on just before bed and you should be good to go, until you wake the next morning.

Hi  ❤️ It sounds like you've got a lot of "what ifs" running around in your head, but I promise this is one of those situations that feels scarier now than it probably will when the trip arrives.

The best thing you can do is pack plenty of your favourite pads. Put a few in your carry-on bag for the plane, and pack a couple of extra packs in your suitcase. That way, even if your period arrives unexpectedly, you'll have products you know and trust right there with you.

Since you've never used a tampon before, I honestly wouldn't recommend making your holiday the first time you try one. When you're travelling and having fun, it's usually best to stick with what you're comfortable with. If your trip is still a few months away and you're curious about tampons, you could always practice using them beforehand at home so there's no pressure.

As for your pad brand, try not to stress. Even if Libra isn't easy to find in New York, there are lots of similar brands available in the US, so you definitely won't be left without period products. You might not find your exact favourite, but you'll be able to find something that does the same job.

One final tip: if you think your period could arrive while you're flying, wear your most absorbent pad and pack a spare pair of underwear and a couple of extra pads in your carry-on. It can make you feel much more confident knowing you're prepared for anything.

Honestly, you sound super organised already, and New York is going to be amazing whether you're on your period or not. You've got this! 🗽💕

Hi, if you mean period pads, then I would 100% recommend the Lil-Lets Teens range. They are specifically designed for younger girls, so they are shorter and narrower than adult pads. This means they're usually more comfortable, less bulky, and less likely to cause chafing while still being very absorbent.

They come in three absorbencies – Day, Long, and Night – so whatever your flow is like, there's a suitable option to help keep you comfortable and protected throughout your period.

They're a great choice if you're just starting your periods and want something that fits well and feels more discreet. 😊

Hi, for me this is once again adding a bit of pressure or expectation around meeting up again in the future, rather than letting things happen organically. If they do accept your invitation for lunch, I'd focus on enjoying the moment and keeping it relaxed.
I wouldn't mention doing it again sometime at the end of the lunch. Instead, leave it there and see how things develop naturally. Then, if you'd like to suggest another lunch, wait a couple of weeks and make the offer on the day rather than trying to establish any kind of schedule.

The key is to keep things light, friendly, and pressure-free. Enjoy the time together for what it is, without trying to secure the next meet-up while you're still in the current one. That tends to feel more natural and comfortable for everyone involved. 😊

Hi💜 First of all, there's absolutely nothing wrong with not having a crush right now.

It can feel like everyone around you is talking about who they like, who likes who, and who's crushing on whom, but the truth is that people develop feelings at different times. Some people seem to have a new crush every week, while others go months or even years without having one. Both are completely normal.

The boy you mentioned from Grade 3 was someone you genuinely liked, and it's understandable that when you found out he didn't like you anymore, your feelings changed too. That doesn't mean anything is wrong, it just means you've moved on.

As for the other boy in your class, it's okay not to know exactly how you feel. Sometimes people make us feel a bit nervous, excited, comfortable, or curious without it being a full-on crush. You don't need to figure it out straight away or put a label on it.

And about being taller than most of the boys? Please don't worry about that. Lots of girls are taller than boys at your age because they often grow earlier. It doesn't make you less likeable or less likely to have someone develop a crush on you.

My biggest piece of advice is this:
Don't have a crush just because other people think you should. A crush is meant to be something that happens naturally. If your friends keep pressuring you, you can simply say: "Honestly, I can't be bothered thinking about crushes right now." You don't owe anyone an explanation. 

And remember, even if you do end up liking someone, you don't have to tell your friends. Those feelings belong to you, and who you share them with is entirely your choice. For now, focus on being yourself, having fun with your friends, and enjoying Grade 5. If a crush comes along, great. If it doesn't, that's perfectly okay too. 😊💕

Hi, this is a really good question, and the answer is that people learn about relationships and growing up in lots of different ways. 💜

Girls might find out about these topics through:

• Parents, carers or trusted adults at home.
• School lessons, such as Relationships and Sex Education (RSE), where age-appropriate information is taught.
• Friends, although it's worth remembering that friends don't always have the right information!!!
• Trusted websites and resources designed for young people, such as the Lil-Lets Teens Hub, where you can find reliable information and answers to common questions.

If you're ever curious about something, it's always best to get information from a trusted adult, teacher, or a reputable educational resource rather than relying on rumours or social media.

Remember, everyone learns at their own pace, and there's no rush to know everything at once. It's completely normal to have questions, and asking them is a great way to learn. 😊

Hi, first of all, can I just say what an amazing thing you're doing? 💜 Setting up a hygiene bank takes so much time, effort and compassion, and you're helping people access essentials with dignity.

One thing I'd suggest is making up ready-to-go bags of everyday essentials rather than asking people to choose from lots of individual products. For many people, the hardest part isn't needing help, it's feeling like everyone can see that they need help. A simple grab-and-go bag can feel much less intimidating and removes the pressure of having to decide what to take while others might be watching.

You could also think about:
✨ Keeping collection as private as possible. Place the bags in a clear, easy-to-access area where people can pick one up without having to ask permission or explain their situation.
✨ Reducing the expectation of conversation. While some people enjoy a chat, others may prefer to collect what they need quietly and be on their way. Giving people space can help them feel more comfortable.
✨ Using positive, welcoming language. Messages such as "Take what you need" or "This service is here for everyone who needs a little extra help" can help reduce feelings of embarrassment or shame.

Most importantly, remember that building trust takes time. The more consistently people see the hygiene bank available without judgement, the more comfortable they'll become using it.

You're doing a genuinely kind thing for your community, so don't be discouraged if it takes a little while for people to feel confident accessing the support. 💕

Hi, I think you're overcomplicating this a little bit (which is very understandable when you're worrying about getting the balance right!).

I'd honestly keep it as simple as: "Hi, fancy doing lunch today or tomorrow?" when you pass by their desk. That's friendly, low-pressure, and gives them an easy opportunity to say yes or no depending on how busy they are.

I wouldn't bring up the previous conversation about "using the space more often", likewise, comments about them having to learn the job by themselves or discussing their team's absence could unintentionally make the conversation feel heavier than it needs to be.

If you have lunch together and the topic naturally comes up, that's different, but I wouldn't go into the interaction planning follow-up statements in advance. Just enjoy the chat for what it is.

So my advice would be:

• Pop by their desk around the middle of next week.
• Ask if they fancy lunch.
• Keep it light and casual.
• Don't revisit previous conversations unless they do.
• Let any future lunch breaks develop naturally.
• Try not to treat this as a test of the friendship or the relationship.

At the end of the day, it's just lunch, and that's exactly why it works best when there isn't any pressure attached to it. 🙂

Hi there💜 Oooh it sounds like you might be experiencing your first crush and trust me, they can be very confusing! One minute someone feels like a normal friend, and the next you find yourself thinking about them more than usual or feeling a bit different when you're around them.

The good news is that there is absolutely no rush to work out exactly how you feel or give your relationship a label. Sometimes feelings take time to make sense, and that's completely okay. For now, just keep enjoying his friendship, chatting, laughing, and spending time together as you always have.

You don't need to decide whether he's your boyfriend or whether you "like" him right this second. As you get to know him better, your feelings will probably become clearer.

And remember, some of the best relationships start out as great friendships first. 💜
For now, just enjoy having a friend who makes you happy, and let things unfold naturally.💜

Hi L, 💜 Firstly, I'm really glad you're under the care of your GP and have more tests planned. It sounds as though you've been dealing with a lot, and it's completely understandable that you're feeling worried and looking for answers.

The biggest thing I want to say is try not to self-diagnose or compare yourself too closely to friends. It's natural to wonder about conditions such as endometriosis when someone you know has it, but lots of different things can cause heavy, painful, or frequent periods. The blood tests and follow-up appointments are there to help your doctors build a clearer picture of what's happening for your body.

You don't mention your age, but if you're in your teens, periods can still be quite unpredictable even 18 months after they start. A cycle that arrives every 15–20 days is shorter than average, but it can happen while hormones are still settling. Heavy periods can also contribute to low iron levels, which may leave you feeling exhausted and generally unwell. It's good that this is already being investigated, as treating low iron can sometimes make a big difference to how you feel overall.

While you're waiting for your next appointment, focus on looking after yourself as best you can. Keep taking any medication as prescribed, stay hydrated, and try to include plenty of iron-rich foods in your diet. Red meat is a good source of iron, and if you're vegetarian, you could try adding foods such as beans, lentils, fortified cereals, or even a handful of frozen spinach to a fruit smoothie. You'd be surprised how well it blends in! Also, although I know it's often the last thing you feel like doing when you're in pain, gentle activity such as walking or stretching can sometimes help ease period cramps.

Most importantly, if your pain is so severe that you can't get out of bed, or if your symptoms get worse before your next appointment, don't feel you have to just put up with it. Go back to your GP and let them know. You deserve to be taken seriously, and it's okay to keep asking for help when something isn't right.

For now, try not to jump ahead to the worst-case scenario. Let the tests and medical team guide you. You're doing exactly the right thing by seeking support and getting things checked out. 💜

Hi💜 Please don't worry. The ages and timelines we often talk about for puberty are only guidelines, not rules. Every body develops at its own pace, so while some people get their first period 6–12 months after noticing discharge, others may wait much longer. Two years between noticing discharge and starting your period can still fall within the wide range of normal.

It's also worth remembering that it can be difficult to know exactly when discharge first started. Some people confuse normal vaginal discharge with smegma, a white substance that helps keep the vulva and labia healthy and moisturised. Others may even mistake very light brown period blood for discharge when it could actually be old period blood. Bodies aren't always as predictable as textbooks make them sound!

As for stress and exercise, they can sometimes affect periods, but from what you've described, I wouldn't jump to the conclusion that anything was "delaying" yours. The most likely explanation is simply that your body was following its own timetable.

Puberty isn't a race, and there is a huge range of what is considered normal.
The important thing is that your period has arrived and your body is doing exactly what it should...just in its own time. 💜

Hi, if you don't want to speak to your mum about your heavier flow, then trust me when I say lots of girls get heavy periods and that's quite normal. Simply move up to a long or night pad for your heavier days as these are designed to capture and hold more fluid, and until you get to the shops to purchase these longer pads, simply overlap your current regular pads to make one longer one.

Hi 💜

I completely understand why you're feeling a bit awkward about it. The thought of sitting through lessons about puberty, relationships and growing up with the whole class there can feel embarrassing at first, especially when it's a mixed group.

But honestly, try not to worry too much. Listen to what your teacher is saying, keep your focus on the lesson, and try not to get caught up in any giggling or silly comments from other people. Most of the time, when classmates start laughing, it's simply because they're embarrassed too. Chances are they're feeling just as awkward as you are!

The truth is that these lessons are important for everyone, regardless of whether they're a boy or a girl. Understanding how bodies change helps us all become more respectful, informed and confident.

And let's be honest, if you've been reading the brilliant articles on our Teens Hub, you probably already know far more than you think! 😊

Go in with an open mind, remember that everyone is learning together, and before you know it, the lesson will be over.💜

Hi 💜

It sounds like you've handled a tricky situation really well, especially spotting the leak before it reached your skort. I know that must have felt worrying, but these things do happen and it sounds like you dealt with it brilliantly.

I'm sorry your pads didn't quite manage your flow this time. Overlapping two pads was actually a sensible idea when you realised your period was heavier than expected, and hopefully by now your flow is starting to get a little lighter. While you're out and about, try to change your pad every 3–4 hours if you can, even if it doesn't feel completely full. That can help prevent leaks and keep you feeling more comfortable throughout the day.

When you're back home, it might be worth looking at long or night pads for your heavier days, as the extra length can give better protection at the front and back. As for running out, if you're getting low on supplies, don't be afraid to speak to one of the residential leaders or teachers. Helping students with period products is a very normal part of their job, and they will want to help.

Most importantly, try not to spend the rest of your trip worrying. One leak doesn't mean more are definitely going to happen. You've learned that this period is a little heavier than usual, and you're already taking steps to manage it. Enjoy the rest of your residential and be proud of how well you've coped. 💜

Hi💜

A first period can start anywhere between the ages of 8 and 18, although many people get theirs around 12 or 13 years old. The tricky thing is that there's no exact way of knowing when your first period will arrive, every body has its own timetable!

One clue is to look out for other signs of puberty. Have you noticed things like breast development, pubic or underarm hair, vaginal discharge, growth spurts, or mood swings? These often happen before a first period starts and can suggest that your body is getting ready for this next stage.

If you're seeing some of these changes, it might be a good idea to pop together a small period kit to keep in your bag when you're out and about. A couple of pads, some spare underwear and intimate wipes can give you peace of mind so that if your period does arrive unexpectedly, you'll feel prepared rather than worried.

Remember, whether your period starts tomorrow or in a few years' time, both are completely normal. 💜