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Step 1
Start the discussion about breasts early on, even before you talk about puberty. This will be particularly easy if you are breastfeeding a baby. Talking openly about breasts from the start will leave the conversation open for when your daughter starts to grow her own.
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Step 2
Explain why breasts are important. When she grows up and has children, your daughter will be able to feed her baby all by herself.
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Step 3
Tell your daughter how breasts grow. According to the Tanner Stages of Development, female breast growth usually starts with the growth of the areolae and a slight puffing under the nipple.
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Step 4
Explain that breast growth can sometimes spur rude behavior from your daughter's peers. Sometimes boys will try to snap her bra, and girls might tease her because her breasts are too large or too small. The best way for your daughter to handle these comments is to tell people to mind their own business and ignore them.
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Step 5
Talk about bras when she is ready. Chances are your daughter will notice there is more movement in her chest and will want a bra to stop the movement or to be more grown up. Consider measuring her for a bra before you go shopping so she doesn't have to be measured by an attendant. You can use the technique described by the BBC website (see Resources below).
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Step 6
Encourage your daughter to take good care of her breasts. Explain the importance of regularly checking her breasts to make sure they seem healthy.
