Anya's Favorite Books For Children

by Robie H. Harris | Ages 2+

This book emphasizes how much male and female bodies have in common. It names all the body parts and includes the internal reproductive organs.

by Dagmar Geisler | Ages 2+

As a child, there are often people trying to pick you up, hug you, or tickle you.   This book teaches body autonomy, that we each have the right to say what happens with our body.  It does not address private parts or sexual abuse, so this is a “starter” book, appropriate for all families.

by Hunter Manasco | Ages 2+

The rules of physical contact can be tricky to grasp for the very young or for children with special needs, yet these are exactly the kids who are at a heightened risk of abuse. This friendly picture book explains in simple terms how to tell the difference between acceptable and inappropriate touch.  Private parts, and photos or videos of private parts are addressed.  There is no mention of child sexual abuse, so while this book gives the guidelines, it is a lighter touch.

What Makes a Baby?

by Cory Silverberg | Ages 2+

This book is amazingly gender neutral and the illustrations are racially neutral. There is no discussion of sexual intercourse, but topics such as conception, fetal development, birth and C-section are included. I recommend this book especially for non-traditional families that may have used IVF or surrogacy.

C is for Consent by Eleanor Morrison

by Eleanor Morrison | Ages 2+

Reading this book with your child is a lesson about body boundaries. The child in the story goes to a party with family and friends. His parents encourage him to make his own choices about receiving and offering physical affection. At the end of the story, Finn waits for consent before holding the hand of his female best friend. C IS FOR CONSENT follows expert recommendations about letting kids make their own decisions regarding physical affection. The book teaches babies, toddlers, parents, and grandparents that it is okay for kids to say no to hugs and kisses, and that what happens to a person’s body is up to them.

Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

by Jessica Love | Ages 2+

This beautiful book demonstrates acceptance for a little boy, who likes to play dress up in a gender non- conforming way.

by Jill Starishevsky | Ages 3+

Using rhymes and neutral illustrations (gender neutral and racially neutral), this book teaches kids to tell an adult if anyone tries to touch their private parts.  This is the story of a child who was abused and told and was believed and protected.  It’s strength is that it is so direct; that’s also something some parents might be uncomfortable with.

Red: A Crayon's Story by Michael Hall

by Michael Hall | Ages 3+

A blue crayon mistakenly labeled as “red” suffers an identity crisis in this picture book by the New York Times–bestselling creator of My Heart Is Like a Zoo and It’s an Orange Aardvark! Funny, insightful, and colorful, Red: A Crayon’s Story, by Michael Hall, is about being true to your inner self and following your own path despite obstacles that may come your way. Red will appeal to fans of Lois Ehlert, Eric Carle, and The Day the Crayons Quit, and makes a great gift for readers of any age!

Introducing Teddy: A gentle story about gender and friendship by Jessica Walton

by Jessica Walton | Ages 3+

One sunny day, Errol finds that Thomas is sad, even when they are playing in their favorite ways. Errol can’t figure out why, until Thomas finally tells Errol what the teddy has been afraid to say: “In my heart, I’ve always known that I’m a girl teddy, not a boy teddy. I wish my name was Tilly, not Thomas.” And Errol says, “I don’t care if you’re a girl teddy or a boy teddy! What matters is that you are my friend.”

Do You Have a Secret?

by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos | Ages 3+

What’s the difference between a good secret and a bad secret? This book reviews all kinds of secrets and helps children use their feelings to decide if they need to tell a grown up about a bad secret.

by Robie H. Harris | Ages 4+

This is my #1 recommendation for teaching kids about sex.  A charming bird and bee provide humor and emotional validation as sex, IVF, multiples, different kinds of families, and good vs. bad touch are presented.

by Anastasia Higginbotham | Ages 4+

The dialogue focuses on the dynamics of sex, rather than the mechanics, as Grandma reminds readers that sex is not marriage or reproduction, and doesn’t look the same for everyone. Instead, each person’s sexuality is their very own to discover, explore, and share if they choose.

by Liz Walker | Ages 4+

A sweet rhyming story about a little girl who is exposed to explicit content online and tells her parent. Illustrations are child-like drawings. Not for Kids! is simple and to the point, a great tool for parents to open conversations about what to do if they are exposed to explicit content, and for parents to learn how to best help their kids cope with what they’ve seen.

by Kristen A. Jenson | Ages 4+

Online porn exposure is a problem even for very young kids.  Using gentle, age-appropriate messages, children will learn to Turn, Run & Tell when they are accidentally exposed to inappropriate content.

Social-Emotional Learning

I'm Feeling Mad by Natalie Shaw

by Natalie Shaw | Ages 2+

When Daniel Tiger feels MAD, he stomps his feet and roars. Then he remembers to take a deep breath and count to four. Soon he feels better. What do you do with the mad that you feel?

by Natalie Shaw | Ages 2+

When Daniel Tiger feels HAPPY, he sings! What makes you feel happy? Come along with Daniel as he and his friends learn about their feelings and what makes them happy. This adorable book includes tips for parents and caregivers to help guide little ones through their emotions.

by Natalie Shaw | Ages 2+

Everyone feels sad sometimes, even Daniel Tiger. When he feels sad, he remembers that it’s okay to feel that way. Soon, he’ll feel better! Come along with Daniel as he and his friends learn how to deal with their feelings. This adorable book includes tips for parents and caregivers to help guide little ones through their emotions.

by Natalie Shaw | Ages 2+

When Daniel Tiger feels silly and needs to calm down, he gives a squeeze, nice and slow, takes a deep breath, and lets it go. Soon, he feels better! Come along with Daniel as he and his friends learn how to handle their feelings. This adorable book includes tips for parents and caregivers to help guide little ones through their emotions.

by Natalie Shaw | Ages 2+

When Daniel Tiger feels grateful, he makes sure to say “thank you”! Sometimes he even makes a thank you card to show how much he cares. Who do you want to thank today? Parents will love teaching their little ones all about what it means to be thankful in this adorable book that includes tips for them to help guide kids through their emotions.

by Dr. Seuss | Ages 2+

Are you a Star-Belly Sneetch or a Plain-Belly Sneetch? This delightful book contains four tales with deliciously subtle takes on how silly it is to be, well, silly. “The Sneetches,” “The Zax,” “Too Many Daves,” and “What Was I Scared Of?” make this energetic compilation a must-have for every library. Full of Dr. Seuss’s signature rhymes and unmistakable characters, it’s perfect for new and lifelong Seuss fans.

by Jayneen Sanders | Ages 5+

This is my favorite book on teaching body boundaries and preventing child sexual abuse.  The crucial skills taught in this book include: identifying safe and unsafe feelings, recognizing early warning signs, developing a safety network, using the correct names for private parts, understanding the difference safe and unsafe touch, understanding the difference between secrets and surprises • respecting body boundaries.

by Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown | Ages 5+

This book discusses how boys and girls are different, while being sensitive to gender roles. It emphasizes respecting privacy and mentions masturbation as well as good and bad touch. It discusses (but does not illustrate) vaginal intercourse. Pregnancy and birth are also included.

Who Are You? The Kid's Guide to Gender Identity by Brook Pessin-Whedbee

by Brook Pessin-Whedbee | Ages 5+

This brightly illustrated children’s book provides a straightforward introduction to gender for anyone aged 5-8. It presents clear and direct language for understanding and talking about how we experience gender: our bodies, our expression and our identity. An interactive three-layered wheel included in the book is a simple, yet powerful, tool to clearly demonstrate the difference between our body, how we express ourselves through our clothes and hobbies, and our gender identity. Ideal for use in the classroom or at home, a short page-by-page guide for adults at the back of the book further explains the key concepts and identifies useful discussion points.

It Feels Good to Be Yourself: A Book About Gender Identity

by Theresa Thorn | Ages 5+

This book introduces gender identity to a young audience. The characters include trans and cis gender kids as well as children who are nonbinary and agender.

by Robie H. Harris | Ages 7+

This is the next book after It’s Not the Stork, with new levels of detail for slightly older kids.  Our charming bird and bee provide humor and emotional validation as sex, menstruation, sexual orientation, premies, multiples, birth and C section, different kinds of families, adoption, good vs. bad touch, and an existing child’s feelings towards a new baby are presented.

by Patricia Schaffer | Ages 7+

This book is sensitive to those with traditional families and those with non-traditional families, including stepparents and multiple homes, multigenerational families, and foster care and adoption. It includes male and female anatomy, sexual intercourse, and a discussion of donor sperm and IVF. Fetal development, multiples, miscarriage, different kinds of birth, preemies, and congenital disabilities are also discussed.

Teaching Tools

Flip Book with Picture Symbols

Ages 5+

Have an honest discussion about healthy and unhealthy behaviors!
These flip books create the same sentences and conversations as flip books, but also incorporate picture symbols to aid in comprehension. This activity helps people explore personal boundaries and appropriate behavior.

To purchase more than 10, email us at info@madhatterwellness.com

Social-Emotional Learning

by Kobi Yamada
Ages 5+

This is the story of one brilliant idea and the child who helps to bring it into the world. As the child’s confidence grows, so does the idea itself. And then, one day, something amazing happens. This is a story for anyone, at any age, who’s ever had an idea that seemed a little too big, too odd, too difficult. It’s a story to inspire you to welcome that idea, to give it some space to grow, and to see what happens next. Because your idea isn’t going anywhere. In fact, it’s just getting started.

by Kobi Yamada
Ages 5+

This is the story of a persistent problem and the child who isn’t so sure what to make of it. The longer the problem is avoided, the bigger it seems to get. But when the child finally musters up the courage to face it, the problem turns out to be something quite different than it appeared.

by Kobi Yamada
Ages 5+

In this story, a child is visited by his first chance and unsure what to do with it, he lets it go. Later on, when a new chance arrives he reaches for it, but this time he misses and falls. Embarrassed and afraid, he begins ignoring each new chance that comes by, even though he still wants to take them. Then one day he realizes that he doesn’t need to be brave all the time, just at the right time, to find out what amazing things can happen when he takes a chance.

by Douglas Wood
Ages 5+

Long ago, as truth descended onto earth, it split in two: one piece landing among the people and the other blazing through the sky. When the people discover the piece of truth, it gives them strength and happiness. But over time, it turns them arrogant and greedy. They do not share their truth with others, wars rage on, and the earth begins to suffer. Then a Little Girl eager for change journeys to find Old Turtle, seeking the precious piece of wisdom that will mend the people’s broken truth, making it — and them — whole once again.

Lulu's Volcano by Liza Raynal

by Liza Raynal| Ages 5+

Lulu’s so mad she could burst, but the problem is she doesn’t know how to be angry. With the help of “Presto Imaginatio Expando,” Lulu goes on an adventure to figure what to do with all the mad she has.

With this DIY picture book, young readers create their own images to explore their emotions alongside Lulu.

Children of the Longhouse

Ages 5+

This is a beautiful story to read aloud to your child.  The social-emotional lessons taught by this book include the importance of a gratitude practice, honoring the earth and environment, the transition toward independence with puberty, understanding war and peace, sportsmanship and competition, the importance of telling adults vs handling a situation on one’s own, and how to deal with a bully. Not only that, this book allows the reader to step inside a Native American village, learning their history, language, and customs.

by Aditi Gupta and Tuhin Paul | Ages 8+

A comic all about puberty and menstruation. While it references sperm and eggs, it does not explain penetration, sex, or birth.

by Jac Torres-Gomez | Ages 8+

Luna races home to ask for advice from her mother, who suggests she do her project on an experience that Luna shares with other girls all around the world: menstruation. As she summons the courage to talk to other girls and women from various cultures about their first period, she embarks on an exciting journey that will change her life forever.

by Kristen A. Jenson M.A. | Ages 8+

This ground-breaking book teaches children the neuroscience of how porn affects our brains in a simple and engaging way. With space to take “notes” and a 5-step plan for what kids can do if they come across porn, this book is perfect for parents who want some help talking about this sensitive topic with their kids.

by Kate E Reynolds | Ages 9+

Ellie likes lots of different things. She likes listening to music and making pizza. There are also things that Ellie enjoys doing in private.

by Kate E Reynolds | Ages 9+

Tom likes lots of different things. He likes singing and watching TV in the family room. There are also things that Tom enjoys doing in private.

by Lucy H. Pearce | Ages 9+

This is a bestselling guide for girls aged 9-14 as they anticipate and experience their body’s changes. A beautiful, sensitive and nurturing celebration of a girl’s transformation to womanhood

by Robie H. Harris | Ages 9+

Our charming bird and bee are back, providing humor and emotional validation as gender, sexual reproduction, sexual feelings and sexual orientation, puberty, masturbation, intimacy, different kinds of families, birth control and abortion, online safety, sexual abuse, and sexually transmitted infections are discussed in detail.

by Kate E Reynolds | Ages 9+

Ellie notices that her body is changing. Hair is growing in new places and there are other changes happening too. Ellie’s mum helps her understand that she has started growing into a woman.

by Kate E Reynolds | Ages 9+

Tom notices that his body is changing. Tom’s voice is different and hair is growing in new places. There are other changes happening too. Tom learns that he has started growing into a man.

Lulu's Volcano by Liza Raynal

by Liza Raynal | Ages 9+

Lulu’s so mad she could burst, but the problem is she doesn’t know how to be angry. With the help of “Presto Imaginatio Expando,” Lulu goes on an adventure to figure what to do with all the mad she has.

With this DIY picture book, young readers create their own images to explore their emotions alongside Lulu.

Children of the Longhouse

by Joseph Bruchac | Ages 8+

This is a beautiful story for your child to read on their own, or for the two of you to read aloud together.  The social-emotional lessons taught by this book include the importance of a gratitude practice, honoring the earth and environment, the transition toward independence with puberty, understanding war and peace, sportsmanship and competition, the importance of telling adults vs handling a situation on one’s own, and how to deal with a bully. Not only that, this book allows the reader to step inside a Native American village, learning their history, language, and customs.

by Cory Silverberg | Ages 11+

This is the advanced version of What Makes A Baby, complete with sexual intercourse, sexual orientation, gender roles and gender identities, discussion of good and bad touch and masturbation. The illustrations are inclusive for all body types and all races. The characters ask open ended questions which will lead to deep discussions between you and your child.

by Mike Domitrz | Ages 11+

A great little book on consent, good for parents or teens. Very clear, very engaging, addressing all the myths as to why you wouldn’t just ask.

Learning Tools

This role-play game is helpful for any gender child. The child is presented with a scenario to analyze for unhealthy relationship dynamics (there are 10 Danger Signs to watch out for) and responds with what they would do in that situation. Sample scripts are provided to help your child learn to be assertive and recognize bullying, sexual abuse, and dating violence.

by Amber J Keyser | Ages 14+

This collection of first-time sexual experiences is detailed and real in a way that movies, TV shows, and romance novels are not. Every teen is curious about what it is like to lose one’s virginity, and this book gives a wide variety of real stories, including those of gay and transgender writers.

On Blossoming: Frank and Practical Advice on Our Bodies, Sexual Health, Sensuality, Pleasure, Orgasm, and More

by Gia Lynne

This book focuses on incorporating the principles of pleasure into sex education and creates a new paradigm of human sexuality. I find this approach refreshing.  At the same time, the author has connections to a community which has caused harm.  I endorse the book but not the community.  Click here for more details.

Our Bodies, Ourselves

by Boston Women’s Health Book Collective

This is a classic guide to women’s health, providing information on women’s reproductive health and sexuality; practical information on how find and access health information; and resources, stories, and information to educate women about health care injustices and inspire them to work collectively to address them.

Doing It by Hannah Witton

by Hannah Witton

Nobody really has sex all figured out. So Hannah Witton wrote a book full of honest, hilarious (and sometimes awkward) anecdotes, confessions, and revelations. Hannah talks about doing it safely. Doing it joyfully. Doing it when you’re ready. Not doing it. Basically, doing it the way you want, when you want (if you want).

Doing It works as an introduction to sex as well as a guidebook for those who are already sexually active, with insight on topics such as healthy relationships, porn, contraception, sex shaming, and more. Approachable and empowering, this is a go-to resource for all things s-e-x.

by Gillian Goerzen

In The Elephant in the Gym, award-winning Personal Trainer and Health Coach Gillian Goerzen gives you a healthy and kind way to approach your fitness and well-being. Grounded in science, self-compassion and Goerzen’s personal journey through the ‘body hatred battleground,’ you’ll learn to ditch the diet, reclaim an empowered relationship with your body, and become healthier as a result.

by Connie Sobczak

This book’s message is rooted in the belief that people inherently possess the wisdom necessary to make healthy choices and live in balance. It emphasizes that self-love, acceptance of genetic diversity in body size, celebration of the unique beauty of every individual, and intuitive self-care are fundamental to achieving good physical and emotional health.

Embody guides readers step by step through five core competencies.  Anyone can practice these fundamental skills on a daily basis to honor their innate wisdom and take good care of their whole selves, and research indicates that this work significantly improves people’s ability to regulate eating, decreases depression and anxiety, and increases self-esteem.

by Amber J. Keyser

More than 320,000 Americans over the age of twelve are sexually assaulted each year. Men are victims too. One in thirty-three American men will be sexually assaulted or raped in his lifetime. Yet only 3 percent of rapists ever serve time in jail. Learn about the patriarchal constructs that support rape culture and how to dismantle them: redefining healthy manhood and sexuality, believing victims, improving social and legal systems and workplace environments, evaluating media with a critical eye, and standing up to speak out. Case studies provide a well-rounded view of real people on all sides of the issues.

NOT ME! How to PREPARE for Dangerous Encounters by Al Horner

by Al Horner

With the sexual assault statistics as they are, this is an essential guide on how women can prepare and protect themselves in the world.

Learning Tools

This role-play game is helpful for any gender child. The child is presented with a scenario to analyze for unhealthy relationship dynamics (there are 10 Danger Signs to watch out for) and responds with what they would do in that situation. Sample scripts are provided to help your child learn to be assertive and recognize bullying, sexual abuse, and dating violence.

Looking for More?

See Anya’s Favorite Books for Parents by clicking the “See Parent’s Books” button below.

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