Recommendations - puberty / sex books

[plaid]

Our dd is getting close to “that age” when we will have to talk about puberty and sex. When I was young, my parents had a great catholic-centered book that they gave me in addition to lots of open communication, but that was going way back now. Any recommendations for appropriate books? We’re talking pre-teen here. thanks

 

[snowbee]

My advice, NO BOOKS, for them that is. Above all be a commanding force in your child’s life in regards to completely open discussions regarding the subject. Any questions they have you should be able to talk about with them frankly, also, do not wait for the questions, but be pro-active while keeping in mind what situations they are facing.

 

[Cat]

Preparing for Adolescence by Dr. James Dobson

Here’s a link: amazon.com/Preparing-Adolescence-James-C-Dobson/dp/0830731156

What Dr. Dobson recommends is to take your child away on a special “weekend” to talk about puberty and the changes that will be happening soon in his or her life. His book is a great guide to tell you what should be covered during this weekend. I believe there is also a workbook that goes with this book.

I heartily recommend this, and anything else by Dr. Dobson.

Caution-he is not a Catholic and therefore believes that masturbation is not a mortal sin. But please don’t dump the man and his books because of this one flaw. There is so much that is wonderful about Dr. Dobson–I would say he’s about 98% Catholic-friendly in his child-rearing strategies! Please check it out. If you don’t want to buy this book, I’m sure it is at your local library, or call one of the large evangelical Protestant churches in your city and ask if they have a library (they probably do) and ask if you can check out this book. That way, you don’t have to pay.

If you’re really broke, call Focus on the Family and ask them if they can help you acquire a copy of the Preparing for Adolescence. Perhaps they know of someone who has raised all their children and would be willing to give the book to you. I would, but I’ve already given my copy away.