Book Review
A short overview of this book
Hayden-Reece Learns a Valuable Lesson that Private Means ‘Just for You’ by Holly-ann Martin is a children’s book for teaching the concept of public and private.
This book will help children to understand the difference between public and private, that no one should see or touch their private parts, and that private means ‘just for you’. It is a good book for older children who find picture books too ‘babyish’.
Ideal Age
Ideal for children aged 5 to 10 years.
Buy this book
✅ Buy a copy of Hayden-Reece Learns a Valuable Lesson that Private Means ‘Just for You’ by Holly-ann Martin from Amazon.
Video Transcription
A transcription of the book review
Hey there! So, I came across this awesome book called Hayden Reece Learns a Valuable Lesson That Private Means Just For You by Holly Anne Martin. It’s actually the second book in a series. Holly Anne is a specialist who visits schools and talks to kids about staying safe from sexual abuse.
The story starts off with Matilda, and this book takes it to the next level. It’s about recess, and Lauren is in the bathroom when Hayden Reece decides to peek over and invade her privacy. But Lauren knows what to do – she tells him no and he backs off. She remembers what Miss Martin said, that if something happens, you need to tell someone. And guess what? Miss Martin is grateful that Lauren spoke up.
Later that day, Miss Martin decides to talk to the class about the difference between public and private. She explains it in a way that kids can understand, using signs and gestures like putting your hand over your mouth. Everyone has their own way of explaining things, right? Well, this is Holly Anne’s way, and it works!
Miss Martin talks about private words that shouldn’t be said at school or in the playground. She tells the kids not to be silly and giggle about it. She also talks about public and private spaces, appropriate behavior, and even those rude words. It’s all about laying down the foundations and making sure kids know what’s okay and what’s not.
The book also emphasizes the importance of knowing the correct names for our private parts. It’s not just about being silly, it’s about understanding our bodies and why it’s important to know these things. And if anyone ever touches you inappropriately and you get those early warning signals, remember to tell someone you trust. That’s a message that’s reinforced throughout the book.
Hayden Reece learns a valuable lesson in this story – that private means private. He realizes that the toilets are not meant for playing, they’re private spaces. And at the end of the book, there are notes on different aspects to talk about, like feelings, early warning signs, networks, saying no, and what to do if someone discloses something to you.
I think this book is fantastic because it gives parents the words and information they need to start teaching their kids about staying safe from sexual abuse. In Australia, protective education isn’t mandatory, so it’s up to schools or parents to take the initiative. This book is a valuable resource that you can use to have those important conversations with your kids.
I hope this review helps! Cheers!
