Changing You: A Guide to Body Changes and Sexuality by Gail Saltz
Short Summary
Changing You: A Guide to Body Changes and Sexuality by Dr. Gail Saltz is an illustrated, age-appropriate puberty book that helps children understand how their bodies grow and change. It explains anatomy, puberty, reproduction, and body safety in a calm, supportive way – perfect for helping kids make sense of what’s happening as they grow up.
Age Group
Suitable for children aged 8 to 12 years.
Topics Discussed
Puberty
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Buy a Copy
Buy a copy of Changing You: A Guide to Body Changes and Sexuality by Gail Saltz from Amazon.
What this book is about
- Changing You begins by explaining why it’s important to talk about our bodies and celebrate the amazing things they can do.
- It introduces puberty as a natural process that happens to everyone, helping kids understand both the emotional and physical changes they might experience.
- The book clearly explains anatomy, using illustrations to show body parts such as the penis and vagina, and describes how these parts develop as kids grow.
- It covers puberty for both boys and girls, including hair growth, hormonal changes, and menstruation, with practical information about periods and body care.
- There’s also a gentle, factual explanation of how babies are made, describing sexual intercourse as something adults do when they love each other and want to have a baby.
- The section on birth includes both vaginal and caesarean deliveries, giving children a realistic picture of how babies enter the world.
- Importantly, the book discusses body autonomy and safety, teaching kids that they have the right to say no to unwanted touch.
- It also introduces the idea of sexual feelings in a reassuring way, normalising curiosity while encouraging children to talk to a trusted adult if they ever feel worried or confused.
- While the book doesn’t cover masturbation, it still provides an excellent foundation for understanding puberty, reproduction, and boundaries.
- Warm, factual, and easy to follow, Changing You is a fantastic first puberty book for kids and a great tool for parents to use in open, supportive conversations about growing up.
I hope you find this book review helpful!
Happy talking!
❤️ Cath