Boys, Girls and Body Science by Meg Hickling

Short Summary

Boys, Girls and Body Science by Meg Hickling is a classic sex education book that first came out in the 1980s and has since been updated. Meg Hickling, a Canadian nurse, uses clear and honest language to explain how bodies work, what private parts are called, and how babies are made. While it may feel a little dated in terms of inclusivity, it still provides children with a straightforward and practical foundation in understanding their bodies.

Age Group

Suitable for children aged 6 to 9 years.

Topics Discussed

Sex Education

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Buy a Copy

Buy a copy of Boys, Girls and Body Science by Meg Hickling from Amazon.

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What this book is about

  • Boys, Girls and Body Science introduces children to the basics of body science, including the differences between boys’ and girls’ bodies.
  • It names private parts clearly, including penis, vulva, vagina, clitoris, and testicles, and even shows examples of circumcised and uncircumcised penises.
  • The book explains what’s needed to make a baby—sperm and egg—and describes the process of conception in the context of baby-making.
  • It also covers pregnancy, showing how a baby grows in the uterus, and includes illustrations of different ways babies can be born, such as vaginal birth and C-sections.
  • Values are gently introduced, with a mention that some families believe sex should only happen within marriage.
  • The book ends with a simple and sweet explanation of the belly button as a reminder of how babies are nourished before birth.
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I hope you find this book review helpful!

Happy talking!
❤️ Cath

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Cath Hakanson is a qualified family sex educator, sexual health nurse and author with 30+ years of clinical and education experience. As an AuDHD parent of two neurodivergent children, she creates clear, practical sex ed resources that help parents talk about bodies, puberty, consent, porn, relationships and sex without shame or judgement.