Talking to your daughter about puberty can feel a little awkward and one of the first chats you will have will most likely be about first bras and breast development.
One of the earliest signs that your daughter is starting puberty is breast development. Here's how to identify this stage and support her through it:
Breast buds are small, firm lumps that form beneath the skin, directly behind the nipple and areola (the darker area around the nipple).
Start with soft, stretchy crop tops or training bras for comfort and light support. Move to lightly padded or non-wired bras as they grow and need more support.
A training or starter bra is a type of bra designed for young girls who are just beginning to develop breast tissue, typically between the ages of 8 and 14. They’re usually a lightweight, unlined design with soft cups. Training bras often resemble crop tops.
The purpose of a training bra is to provide your teen with support and coverage as they start to grow breasts. It's important to remember that a training bra is not meant to enhance or alter the shape of the breasts, but rather to provide a comfortable and secure fit.
As your teen goes through puberty and starts to develop breast tissue, their breasts can be sensitive or tender. Wearing a training bra can help alleviate some of this discomfort by providing a layer of padding or fabric between the skin and clothing. This also helps them get used to wearing bras to make the transition easier.
Training bras come in a variety of styles and materials, some have adjustable straps and hooks in the back, while others are simply stretchy and pull over the head. It's important to choose a training bra that fits properly and feels comfortable, as an ill-fitting bra can cause discomfort and pain.
As breasts grow, they may start to bounce or move when your teen is active in school or exercising, which can be uncomfortable and even painful. Sports bras help reduce the movement of the breasts during exercise and make them feel more comfortable and supported.
Wearing a sports bra for exercise also protects the ligaments that support the breasts.
It’s all about being open, kind, and making the experience as positive as possible. This can help build trust and confidence during this new stage of growing up.
Breast development is an exciting and sometimes challenging milestone. By offering reassurance and open communication, you can help your daughter navigate this stage with confidence and comfort.
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There’s no set age—some girls start developing as early as 8, while others might not need a bra until their teens. If your child mentions discomfort, wants more coverage under their clothes, or you notice their breast development, it may be time to consider a first bra and have the chat!
The best way to ensure a good fit is to measure your child’s under bust (just below the bust) and over bust (the fullest part). Most stores offer free bra fittings, or you can follow an online guide to measure at home. Remember that sizes will vary from store to store so be sure to try on before purchasing.
Soft, non-wired bras or crop tops are great for beginners as they offer gentle support and comfort. As breast development continues, lightly padded or structured bras may provide better coverage and shape.
This is a personal choice! Some girls feel more comfortable with the extra support, while others prefer to wear one only when needed. Encourage your child to decide what feels best for them.
Because breasts can increase in size so quickly during puberty, aim to have 2-3 bras ideally. This allows for regular washing and a spare for special occasions.
Bras should be washed after 2–3 wears (or more often in hot weather or after sports). Hand washing is best for longevity, but machine washing on a gentle cycle also works.
It’s only natural for some girls to feel shy when discussing a first bra! Approach the topic casually and reassure them that getting a bra is a natural part of growing up. You could let them choose their own bras online or in-store to make it a more comfortable experience.
Every child is different, some may need a new bra every few months during growth spurts, while others may wear the same size for longer. It’s a good idea to check the fit regularly.
This will depend on growth spurts, some girls can wear a bra for a few months, other a year or so. It's important to also remember wear and tear, some bras will start to lose their shape over time and when washed repeatedly.
