Public Libraries of Suffolk County, New York

Beyond birds and bees, one mom discovers shame-free ways to teach and talk to our kids about sex, Bonnie Rough

eng

Includes bibliographical references and index

index present

non fiction

Beyond birds and bees

bibliography

Bonnie Rough

one mom discovers shame-free ways to teach and talk to our kids about sex

"A provocative inquiry into how we teach our children about bodies, sex, relationships and equality--with revelatory, practical takeaways from the author's research and eye-opening observations from the world-famous Dutch approach Award-winning author Bonnie J. Rough never expected to write a book about sex, but life handed her a revelation too vital to ignore. As an American parent grappling with concerns about raising children in a society steeped in stereotypes and sexual shame, she couldn't quite picture how to teach the facts of life with a fearless, easygoing, positive attitude. Then a job change relocated her family to Amsterdam, where she soon witnessed the relaxed and egalitarian sexual attitudes of the Dutch. There, she discovered, children learn from babyhood that bodies are normal, the world's best sex ed begins in kindergarten, cooties are a foreign concept, puberty is no big surprise, and questions about sex are welcome at the dinner table. In Beyond Birds and Bees, Rough reveals how although normalizing human sexuality may sound risky, doing so actually prevents unintended consequences, leads to better health and success for our children, and lays the foundation for a future of gender equality. Exploring how the Dutch example translates to American life, Rough highlights a growing wave of ambitious American parents, educators, and influencers poised to transform sex ed--and our society--for the better, and shows how families everywhere can give a modern lift to the birds and bees"--, Provided by publisher

Part one. Hatch -- Dreaming -- Dropping the fig leaf -- Finding words -- Innocence -- Privileging pleasure -- The doctor is in -- Part two. Fly -- What (in)equality is made of -- Consent -- No cooties allowed -- Spring fever -- The joy of sex ed -- Safe haven -- Conclusion: Bringing it home