Tell Me about Sex, Grandma (Ordinary Terrible Things)
Ordinary Terrible Things Series
on Goodreads (292)
What’s inside...
In 'Tell Me about Sex, Grandma,' author Anastasia Higginbotham addresses the topic of sex education through a compassionate and open conversation between a child and their grandmother. The book is part of the 'Ordinary Terrible Things' series, which tackles complex issues in an accessible way for children. The narrative explores themes of consent, body autonomy, and the emotional aspects of sex, aiming to provide a safe and honest dialogue about a subject often considered taboo. The grandmother character offers wisdom and reassurance, emphasizing the importance of respect for oneself and others. The book is known for its inclusive approach and handcrafted collage illustrations, making it a unique resource for children and caregivers to discuss sexuality in a healthy and age-appropriate manner.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Child
Grandma
Discussion points
How did reading this book make you feel about the topic of sex?
What do you think is the most important thing Grandma is trying to explain?
Why is it important to have honest conversations about complex topics like sex?
How do you think knowing about this helps you as you grow older?
What would you ask Grandma if you had a question on this topic?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation in a comfortable setting, ensuring it's just the right time and place for an open discussion. Be patient and listen actively to your child’s thoughts and questions, providing answers that are truthful yet suitable for their age and understanding. Reinforce that this is a safe space for any kind of questions they might have. Praise their curiosity and reassure them that it’s perfectly normal to discuss these topics. Use examples from the book to guide your discussion, relating them back to easily understandable scenarios.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Open Communication
Explanation: The book presents a nurturing dialogue between a grandmother and her grandchild about a sensitive topic, showing the importance of having open and honest conversations.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of discussing their questions and concerns with trusted adults, which can lead to healthier understanding and emotional development.
Example Lesson: Respect for Personal Boundaries
Explanation: The story emphasizes the concept of personal boundaries and respecting others' space and bodies, demonstrating this through the interactions between characters.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand consent and the importance of respecting each other's personal space in everyday interactions at school, home, and with friends.
Example Lesson: Education on Sensitive Topics
Explanation: The book tackles topics that are often considered taboo but are essential for a child’s comprehensive education. By addressing these in a child-friendly manner, it opens the door for informed curiosity.
Real-World Application: Equips children with the knowledge and vocabulary to discuss and understand complex topics safely and intelligently, promoting a well-rounded educational foundation.
Example Lesson: Coping with Curiosity
Explanation: The book portrays the grandchild's curiosity about sex and relationships, and how it is handled with care and respect by the grandmother, endorsing healthy curiosity.
Real-World Application: Children learn that their curiosity is natural and that it's constructive to seek answers through proper channels, fostering a healthy attitude towards learning and discovery.