In a light-hearted and relatable moment shared on social media, Elizabeth Fischer, a 44-year-old mother from Denver, has garnered significant attention after posting her eight-year-old daughter Eleanor’s vision board on TikTok. The board included a rather humorous wish: “Hope I do not get my period this year.” The quirky sentiment was highlighted in bright purple marker, adorned with a picture of a pad crossed out with an “X.” Fischer’s post, which was shared in January, invites viewers to engage in conversations about the often-uncomfortable subject of early puberty.
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The video quickly resonated with many viewers, particularly women reflecting on their own experiences with adolescence. In her caption, Fischer noted her daughter’s aversion to the onset of menstruation by playfully stating, “Sorry @Always, my 8-year-old ain’t having it yet,” in reference to the major sanitary product brand.
Responses began flooding in within moments of the video being posted. Many users expressed their solidarity with Eleanor’s sentiment. One comment read, “Yes queen. Sending positive vibes you make it one more year at least.” Another added, “Manifesting an 8th grade first period for all. I loved my experience.” Such responses not only highlighted the collective discomfort associated with early puberty but also sparked a supportive dialogue among women of all ages.
Fischer explained that making vision boards with her daughters has become an annual tradition, but this year’s board was created during a New Year’s gathering where the hosts set up a craft station for children. She noted, “I try to do vision boards every year, and the last two years I’ve invited my girls to join me.” The spontaneity of this year’s creation took her by surprise, particularly given Eleanor’s choice of expressions.
In addition to her desire to avoid her period, Eleanor also wished for more encounters with animals like sharks and expressed a desire to skateboard more frequently. Upon seeing the elements of her daughter’s creation, Fischer speculated, “Honestly, I think she saw an ad for pads in a magazine, and that prompted her to say ‘no thank you to this!’” This realisation marked a poignant moment for Fischer, serving as a reminder of the rapid pace at which children grow up and the related experiences that come with such growth.
The candidness of the vision board led to an important discussion between Fischer and her daughter about their bodies. “Growing up in the 90s, bodies and bodily functions were taboo,” Fischer reflected. “I don’t ever want my kids to be ashamed of their biology.” She elaborated that their conversation focused on the natural changes that occur during development, reinforcing the idea that such milestones should be acknowledged rather than shunned.
Despite the potentially awkward nature of the topic, Fischer felt it was imperative for her daughter to receive a truthful perspective from her mother. “It was slightly uncomfortable to talk about with my 8½-year-old,” she admitted. “But she deserves to hear the truth.” Such a dialogue not only aims to foster a sense of confidence in Eleanor but also normalises the conversation surrounding menstruation for children.
The response to Fischer’s TikTok post has been overwhelmingly positive. She expressed gratitude for the supportive comments, revealing that many women shared their own early experiences with menstruation, some of which were less than ideal. “The reception has truly been lovely. Lots of women agreeing with her and wishing they too wouldn’t get their period this year,” she shared. This connection with strangers reinforced a sense of community and understanding regarding shared feminine experiences.
Fischer concluded her thoughts by reflecting on the unique impact her daughter’s innocent wish had on women of all ages. “I was not expecting the responses, but I’ve loved how my little girl’s message resonated with so many,” she said. The dialogue that ensued has reminded many that, despite the awkwardness often associated with puberty, it is a universal experience uniting women everywhere.