In this week's episode, Dr. Blair Rolnick discusses how to talk to children about puberty. She recommends starting conversations early, around ages 7-9, before puberty begins. Key points include using correct anatomical language, keeping initial talks short, and being prepared for questions.
Dr. Rolnick provides book and video resources for both girls and boys, as well as specific materials tailored for children with autism. She emphasizes the importance of normalizing discussions about changing bodies and emotions to foster trust and make children feel comfortable. Ultimately, by approaching the topic of puberty in an age-appropriate, straightforward manner and utilizing helpful resources, parents can effectively guide their children through this crucial developmental stage, setting the foundation for open communication about even more sensitive topics in the future.
Resources:
The Care and Keeping of You: https://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Younger-American/dp/1609580834
It's Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, Gender, and Sexual Health: https://www.amazon.com/Its-Perfectly-Normal-Changing-Growing
Guy Stuff: The Body Book for Boys: https://www.amazon.com/Guy-Stuff-Body-Book-Boys/dp/1683370260
What's Happening to My Body (Boys) https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Happening-Body-Book-Boys/dp/1557047650
What's Happening to My Body (Girls) https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Happening-Body-Book-Girls/dp/1557047642
Sex is a Funny Word: https://www.amazon.com/Sex-Funny-Word-Bodies-Feelings/dp/1609806069/
The Boys' Guide to Growing Up: https://www.amazon.com/Boys-Guide-Growing-Up/dp/1526360179
The Growing Up Book for Boys: What Boys on the Autism Spectrum Need to Know! https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Up-Book-Boys-Spectrum/dp/1849055750
The Growing Up Guide for Girls: What Girls on the Autism Spectrum Need to Know! https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Up-Guide-Girls-Spectrum/dp/1849055742
What's Happening to Tom?: A book about puberty for boys and young men with autism and related conditions https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Happening-Tom-conditions-Sexuality/dp/1849055238
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4NZwmSwIzQc
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always seek medical advice from a qualified physician.
For Dr. Rolnick's practice and more content, visit: https://beekindpediatrics.com/
