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/