Book Review
A short overview of this book
What’s Down There? A book about girl bodies for curious kids by Alex Waldron is a book about vulvas and how to keep bodies safe. I’m not quite sure how to describe this book. It’s a little silly, but sometimes that’s an approach that works with kids. But I do like that this book has some illustrations that show the diversity in vulvas. Oh, and a lot of parents have told me that they love this book. Anyway, watch my video review and make your own opinion about it.
This is what the author has to say about this book:
One book in a series of innovative and groundbreaking picture books form exciting new writer and illustrator Alex Waldron. With funny, engaging text and cool, hand-drawn illustrations, these read together (or read alone) books are perfect for initiating honest and realistic conversations about our bodies, the issues of consent and staying safe, relationships and families and bereavement.
You can learn more on this page, about how to talk to kids about sex education.
Ideal Age
Ideal for children aged 5 to 9 years.
Buy this book
✅ Buy a copy of What’s Down There? A book about girl bodies for curious kids by Alex Waldron from Amazon.
Video Transcription
A transcription in case you are more of a reader than a listener
Hey there! Welcome to Sex Ed Rescue with Cath Hak. Today, we’re diving into a book that’s all about vulvas and vaginas for children. I’m here to give you the lowdown on this book and help you navigate those sometimes tricky conversations with your kids. So, let’s get started!
The book we’re looking at is called What’s Down There: A Book About Girl Bodies for Curious Kids from Fred and Woody’s Fantastic World. Now, I’ve gotta tell you, opinions on this book are divided among parents. Some love it, some not so much. But hey, don’t just take my word for it. Form your own opinion. Personally, there are parts I like and parts I don’t. But rest assured, it’s been reviewed by a sex educator, so the information should be accurate.
The story begins with Stevie, Fred, and Woody, who are cousins living in the fantastic world of Kurnale country. Stevie, being a girl, wonders what’s down there. And you know what? It’s totally normal to have questions about our bodies. Stevie compares her body to Fred and Woody’s and realizes that everyone is different. She describes her vulva as a treasure chest at the bottom of the sea, a special place that’s unique to her. I think that’s a really positive way to explain it!
But what’s down there? Stevie wonders about the names for it. She’s heard lots of different terms from grown-ups, and it can get confusing. But hey, she knows someone who can shed some light on the matter: Big Nanna! Big Nanna explains that it’s called a vulva and a vagina. She even gives a fun description of where it’s located, between the nose and toes, below the belly button but above the knees, and in front of the bum, near the place where we pee.
Now, I know this book isn’t explicitly inclusive of nonbinary and transgender kids, but you can totally adapt it to be more inclusive in your own conversations. It’s important to make sure all kids feel seen and represented.
Stevie and her cousins continue to ask Big Nanna questions, like whether there’s hair down there. Big Nanna explains that some people trim it, while others let it grow wild and free. And let me tell you, the illustrations in this book are great! They show a variety of vulvas in different colors and shapes, reminding us that we’re all unique and perfect in our own way.
Big Nanna emphasizes the importance of keeping our bodies clean and washing regularly. She also talks about boundaries and consent, reminding Stevie that she gets to choose who touches her. And hey, there’s even a bit of humor thrown in, like not touching yourself during mealtime to avoid making a mess!
At the end of the book, Stevie feels more informed and confident about her body. She knows that her vulva is a part of her and that it’s always her choice if someone touches or sees it. And that’s a powerful message to instill in our kids.
Now, I do want to mention that there are a few things in this book that I personally think could be improved. In today’s world, we need to address the issue of child-on-child sexual touch more directly. It’s important to teach our kids that no one should be touching their genitals without their consent. So, as parents, we can add some extra information to the conversation when discussing this book.
But overall, this is the only book I know of for younger children that specifically addresses this topic. It’s written in English, so keep that in mind. Ultimately, whether you love it or hate it, it’s up to you to decide. And hey, if you have any questions or need more guidance, I’m here to help.
Cheers, and keep those important conversations going!
