awkward questions

[whizwheels]

I'm a single father and have a delightful 8 year old daughter. She has just started on key stage 2 sex education at school and has a plethora of questions re: reproduction and her sexuality. She is very bright so "birds and bees" won't cut it ! This is the one area where I have trouble. Is there a book or website that you can recommend I can use to help me. Our nearest female relative is too far away to help. I love my daughter dearly and want to do the best by her, without overstating the importance of sex and relationships etc.

[annie0000]

my boys liked the "mummy laid an egg" book as this seems quite suitable for young kids - but they were a wee bit younger than your daughter.

Also saw these - which might be good, but I haven't seen inside them so can't say for sure:

http://www.thebookpeople.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stor es/servlet/product_10001_10051_128488_100_4810 7__category_

[annie0000]

Otherwise, I think that it is best to be as honest as you can without going into more detail than she asks for. I have found that the least embarrasing way to have these conversations is in the car - when you can't look at them while you are talking - lol.

I would maybe mention to her teacher that you lack female support at home for this subject and hopefully (she?) will be able to help out a bit more.

[coweyes30]

I'd start with asking her what she already knows children these days are forward and know more than what is let on, My oldest is 11 now and i haven't had to tell her that much as she has already learnt it at school. Every so often i ask her if there is anything she would like to know,We've just done the shaving of arm pits and legs!
Good luck not easy but being open is best the she'll come back if theres any problems.

[mumof3angels]

HI
My daughter is 11 now, but I bought her a book a year ago and it's been brilliant for her.It's called 'What's happening to me' by Susan Meredith and is published by Usbourne. It explains what will happen to her without being too graphic concerning certain information. It is written in a very childlike way and is very easy to understand. It also has a very small section of how boys' bodies change but this only covers a few pages. I would really recommend this book. Here's a link for it
http://www.whsmith.co.uk/CatalogAndSearch/Prod uctDetails-Whats+Happening+to+Me+-978074606995 0.html
I hope this has been of some use,

[whizwheels]

Thanks all for the advice. Will go to Smiths tomorrow to buy or order " whats happening to me" and see how we go from there. Thanks again,
Embarrased father.