Books for Challenging Issues

Sometimes I get a little worried thinking about some of the "big" issues that we need to teach our kids about. But, I have been encouraged by a lot of people to be proactive about it because you would rather your kids learn about it from you than someone else. So, this summer I decided to become a little bit proactive. We love books and a few books had been recommended by people I respect about these difficult topics. Here are the ones I got and that we intend to use with our children.

God Made All of Me - by Justin and Lindsey Holcomb
This the only book from these that I have read with my oldest kids so far, and I really liked it. It focuses on the proper names of body parts, why some parts are private and the difference between a surprise and a secret. A great, basic and age appropriate book and a good foundation for the rest.

Good Pictures, Bad Pictures - by Kristen Jenson and Gail Poyner
This is more of a workbook style book that teaches children about what pornography is, why it is harmful and what to do if you see a "bad" picture. It is intended for kids who are age 6+ and I will admit that I haven't used it at all yet with my children. But, I am glad to have something on hand for when we decide it is time.

The Story of Me and Before I Was Born - by Brenna and Stan Jones and Carolyn Nystrom
These books are a part of series about teaching your children about sex. Again, I haven't used these yet, but I am very pleased with what they have. The first one is a very basic explanation of body parts, growth and development of babies and God's intention for sex as something for marriage alone. The second book goes into more details, including the differences between boys and girls a really simple and age appropriate explanation of act of sex. Again, I haven't read these yet with any of my kids, but I think we will get started on the first one soon.

Again, we haven't used all of these yet, but it makes me feel at peace to know I have something on hand for when I think we are ready or when the kids start to ask more questions.

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A Perspective

I have already mentioned my "Word of the Day" screen saver that I have on my laptop that is hooked up to the projector in my room. I am learning that the words go in cycles a bit, so the same word will pop up in several classes during the day. Today's popular word was "entitlement." A fantastic word to share with teenagers who often think they are entitled to a whole lot of stuff. In fact, we as humans often think we are entitled to a whole lot of stuff when really we are fallen people who deserve nothing but death. We so often miss how wonderful and blessed our life really is and we get caught up on the little things. This video sort of puts that in perspective in a rather humorous way. I am by no means promoting this comedian, but if you take what he says to heart, it is so true. We live in an amazing world, created by an amazing God. We really should be happy with the blessing we have been given.

The Best Summer of Our Lives by Rachel Hauck

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