The Scar by Charlotte Moundlic and Olivier Tallec (ages 5 to 9)
When his mother dies, a little boy reacts honestly to his profound loss in this poignant snapshot of grief. The boy candidly describes his loss and concern for his grieving father with heartfelt immediacy. Simple illustrations stress the boy’s distress and isolation while powerfully conveying his progression from anger and fear to sadness and acceptance. […]
If Only by Carole Geithner (ages 10 and up)
A stunning debut about one girl’s journey through loss and grief. Corinna’s world is crushed after her mother dies of cancer. How does she get through the funeral, trays of ziti, a father who can’t communicate, the first day of school, Mother’s Day, people who don’t know what to say, and the entire eighth-grade year? […]
Where Do They Go? by Julia Alvarez (ages 3 to 7)
“This beautiful book asks all the right questions to help young children become aware of the eternal bonds that live on after death, while wisely leaving the answers to the readers themselves. A book to ponder, to discuss, and to cherish.” —R. J. Palacio, author of Wonder
Girls and Sex: Navigating the Complicated New Landscape by Peggy Orenstein
This best-selling book by award-winning journalist Peggy Orenstein sheds a somewhat disturbing light on female sexuality in the modern age. But that’s not all, she also makes the case for fearless comprehensive sex education. Though the author profiles older subjects, it’s worth a read, since the bulk of conditioning and attitude-shaping happens in the early […]
Beyond Birds and Bees: Bringing Home a New Message to our Kids about Sex, Relationships, and Equality by Bonnie J. Rough
American author and mother contrasts the way we approach sexuality related issues with our children here in the U.S. with the way things are done in the Netherlands. Engaging, eye-opening, and well-done.
“Sex Education that Goes Beyond Sex” by Grace Tatter, Harvard School of Education
Why schools and families need to talk about relationships, caring, and consent as part of a comprehensive approach to sex ed
“Let’s Talk: Tips for Talking With Your Children about Sexuality” by Planned Parenthood
A 3-page tip sheet on talking with kids about sexuality
“Why Sexuality Education is an Important Part of a Safety Plan”
All children are curious about sex. The more children know about their own sexuality, the less likely it is that others will take advantage of them because of their lack of knowledge.
Stella Brings the Family by Miriam B. Schiffer (ages 5-7)
When the daughter of two dads is faced with a classroom Mother’s Day celebration, she struggles, then gets creative and empowered.
In Our Mothers’ House by Patricia Polacco (ages 7-8)
From acclaimed and beloved children’s author Polacco, a beautiful book about a family with two dynamic mothers at the helm.