How to Learn About Human Reproduction for Kids

Learning about human reproduction can be hard for kids. Some schools may offer courses on human reproduction, but the information imparted may not be what a parent wants her child to learn. Or the child may not feel that he is learning enough. Teaching a child about human reproduction should be a collaborative process that fosters an environment in which the child is comfortable talking to her parents about reproduction.

Things You'll Need

• Books
• Videos

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Instructions

Teaching Reproduction for Parents

• 1

  Start young. Teaching your child to accept his body and to feel good about himself sets the stage for adolescence. You can begin this process as early as preschool. If your child can feel confident about herself, she will feel more confident when her body starts to change. This also makes it easier for the child to ask questions later on.

• 2

  Use anatomically correct words. Using other words for the penis or other such body parts conveys to the child that there is something different about that body part. It may even send the message that that part is shameful and should be ignored. This can cause problems later in life when you want your child to be safe and speak to you about his reproductive health.

• 3

  Do not use graphic illustrations if your child is under 8. Saying that babies happen when a man and a woman come together in a special way is sufficient. Doing more at this stage may confuse the child.

• 4

  Know when a child's body starts to chance. A girl will start going through puberty between ages 8 and 14 while a boy starts between 9 and 15.

• 5

  Speak with your child about how her body will change (starting around age 9 or 10). If you are not comfortable with this, or do not feel you know enough, look through books on reproduction with your child, take her to a doctor or nurse and let her ask questions, or find another reputable resource such as a website.

• 6

  Be available to answer questions when puberty hits. It may help to tell your child about when your went through puberty. It can be an embarrassing topic for preteens, so be sure not to make a big deal out of it. Explain things in a matter-of-fact way. Be up-front.

• 7

  Provide your preteen son and daughter with their own soaps and deodorants. For girls, provide sanitary napkins and razors if you approve of her shaving.

• 8

  Don't just explain puberty. Also explain why your child is going through puberty and how it affects reproduction. Kids need to know that sex exists and that you can get pregnant or get someone pregnant from engaging in sexual intercourse. At this point it may be useful to go back to books and websites.

• 9

  Explain contraceptives to your preteen. Children often start having sex before their parents are ready to discuss the topic. Teach your child at the start of puberty. Show your son how to use a condom by placing one on a banana. Explain birth control to your daughter. You may even want to take your child to a doctor for a fuller discussion of this.

Learning Reproduction for Children.

• 10

  If you are a child, know that your body is yours, that it's beautiful, and that it's something to be proud of. You might be teased about your body, but others' opinions don't need to affect you. If you are comfortable with your body, it will be easier to ask questions about it.

• 11

  Use anatomically correct words. Saying the word "penis" or "vagina" isn't dirty. It's simply naming a body part.

• 12

  Ask your mom or dad to explain reproduction to you. They can provide you with relevant information that you are ready for.

• 13

  If your parents approve, go to the library with them and check out books about reproduction, or check for information online. Ask your parents any questions you have.

• 14

  Ask to talk to a doctor about how your body is changing and how to cope with puberty. A doctor can give you good, reputable information about your body.