Mommy Laid an Egg
by, Babette Cole
This is a humorous picture book explaining to children the answer to the question "where do babies come from?" The children in this book already know the answer, and they laugh when their parents present them with ridiculous explanations.
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, I think the humorous style of this book would help parents to discuss this topic with their children in a relaxed manner. The topic of sex can be very uncomfortable for parents and children alike, and presenting accurate information, without being incredibly serious and uptight about it all, can help lay the foundation for years of healthy and open communication between parents and their children. However, I would not be truthful if I didn't admit that the page with illustrations depicting the various ways that parents might "fit together"doesn't make me a tad uncomfortable. This being said, I do think I would be willing to share this book with my own children. I truly believe that children need to have accurate information about this subject, and I believe that creating an open and safe environment for kids to ask questions and talk about sex will help children to grow up to have healthy relationships.
I realized as I read this book that there are probably many controversial books that I would feel comfortable sharing with my own children, but would be unlikely to present to students in my classroom. This is one of these books. I would be interested to here what others think about this.
In regards to your last paragraph, I absolutely agree with you. I think one of our biggest fears, as future teachers, are 1) our boss 2) PARENTS of our students and 3) losing our jobs. Although I do not have children of my own yet, I do have a 3 year old niece and a 1 year old nephew. I would read most, if not all, of the controversial books that we have talked about in class to them. Because when it's your own kid (or relative) you read them the story and that is the end of it. No worries about a phone call or a meeting with the principal. Also, as parents (and Aunts ;)) we want those close to us to have the opportunity to be exposed to controversies in order to form opinions and to become more open-minded and well-rounded. The public school is surrounded by a delicate bubble that can easily be popped and for me personally I feel like I am forced to take the safe route unless I want consequences.
ReplyDeleteI almost wonder if the humor would be lost on certain ages of kids. With kids that are too young to get that the story is supposed to be sarcastic, this story could potentially backfire. I think it's great to add humor into a sex talk at home, but doing it at school is pretty intimidating for me.
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