So at what age do you think its suitable to explain to your child how babies are made and about the body? Ive just started reading a book about it to my 6yr old son and have mentioned it to a couple of ppl (family) and they have all said they do not agree as he is too young. I thought this was a perfect age as he is not embarrassed and openly asks questions as we read the book together.
7 Replies
Knowledge is power!
I believe there is an age appropriate way to explain pretty much any topic to a child, especially topics as natural as reproduction.
I know women who not only don't know the correct terminology but also the location and function of their own female anatomy.
I know men who think a woman can get pregnant whilst she's still pregnant (Like we just have wombs galore or something 🤣).
My point is, so many adults are under educated about these things because until very recently it has been a taboo subject. Being open and honest with kids about biological matters is a good thing and at the end of the day - he's your kid, parent how you see fit!
I think as long as its age appropriate then talk to them about it. I'm assuming the book you are reading is structured to his age? And answers structured to age as well?This prevents children being embarrassed about it when older and being uneducated about it.
Gosh, it’s a great time.
It’s fine.
I talk to my son who is almost 5 about it all in a way that he understands without going into great big detail
From day dot. My kids know babies come from a vagina or a tummy if they need to be cut out, that a man and a woman make a baby together, that there's eggs inside mummy etc.
Then as they get older I will discuss the sex talk when necessary.
Keep it age appropriate and answer all questions your child ever has.
I'm a suicide widow so I've had to answer some very touchy questions from my now 4yr old. I've never held back, but I've never divulged more than what he's asked for.
Same with sex ed. He wants me to provide him with a sibling. I've had to explain the basics so he understands why it's not possible right now.
I don’t read books to my kids about it, I just talk openly as it comes. I don’t sugar coat -anything, I will sometimes make light of the situation if a topic comes up just so they don’t feel embarrassed by anything and feel like they are free to talk about it without having to worry. So I think 6 is too young if it’s not a book directed at 6 year olds.i personally don’t think you need a book, say it how you think you should and when you feel comfortable with your kid. I think people are misunderstand the book reading with you. It comes across as though you would be reading older books to a 6 year old if that makes sense. Most books are aimed at older kids 8 plus when it comes to stuff like this. I think this is what they mean. If you took the book away and just spoke open and honestly, I don’t think they would think anything of it. I have always been open and honest since my kids were little. I don’t want my kids shocked by anything like I was growing up. You do what you feel is right. Don’t worry about what others say. If the book you read seems suitable for a 6 year old, that’s your judgment then you read it to your child.