Got Teens?

January 20, 2014
This insightful guide to adolescent bodies, health, and sexuality by educators Levkoff (Third Base Ain’t What it Used to Be) and Wider (The New Mom’s Survival Guide) combines solid information with compassionate advice. Information is presented in q&a format, with theoretical parents posing questions on topics ranging from puberty (“My son’s chest seems to be developing a little. WTF?”), to sexuality (“My son asked me if a girl can get pregnant from oral sex. What should I tell him?”), to body image (“My daughter is on a diet…”). The answers acknowledge the confusion that parents may feel when they try to figure out the motives behind their teens’ questions. Other questions and answers address the implications of parenting decisions and concerns about what is normal. In all cases, the authors respond with sensitivity about the interaction between “solid science and individual parental values.” Although the claim that the advice comes from “doctor moms” is a little dubious, given that the authors’ children are still young, it’s clear that they have considerable experience dealing with adolescents and their parents. This guide offers parents comfort and encouragement together with effective communication tools to help them help their kids make the tough transition to adulthood.

May 15, 2014

Sexuality educator/writer Levkoff (What Your Kids Are Learning About Sex Today) and women's health expert Wider give parents of adolescents a solid question-and-answer-style guide to the many concerns related to teens and their parents. Covering bombs such as: "How can I explain what a blow job is to my child?" to more mundane matters such as sharing passwords (don't do it!), the authors clearly have their fingers on the pulse of teens and their ever-changing world. In a conversational and humorous style, they give parents the support they need to converse honestly with their kids toward the "reality-based parenting that we need today." VERDICT While puberty books are a dime a dozen, this work zeroes in on the peskiest questions that teens ask and gives sound, friendly advice for challenging topics. Recommended with enthusiasm.

Copyright 2014 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.