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The following reviews are based solely on my opinion from having read through some of the content and gathered feedback from other like-minded moms. Some of the age ranges were taken from the author’s description, while others are my own opinions. Be sure to check back for more great resources to come!
Discussing puberty and sexuality with children is best done as an ongoing, natural process rather than a one-time book discussion or retreat. (See my article 5 Key Principles for Teaching Kids About Sexuality and Purity: An Interview with 7 Godly Moms Who God It Right) Having said that, the following books are recommended by like-minded moms as good tools to use in the process. While I have read through some of the content in these books myself, I would highly encourage you to read through the books alone first (or others you find on this topic), and pray about whether the approach and timing is right for your child, as every child and family situation is unique. I encourage you then to either read these books WITH your child, so you can answer questions and discuss the topics together, or just use them as a guide to help you know how to talk to your children when situations arise.
The Miracle of Change
By: Tim and Amy Loper
Biblical Standard Publications
Best for ages 11-13
This is a great book for mom to read with daughter and provides information about puberty and menstruation in a positive, God honoring way. This book takes a more delicate, indirect approach to sexuality by using an analogy of the reproduction of a flower to explain intercourse. If you prefer a more subtle approach to teaching sexuality when your kids are pre-teen age, this is a great book to provide girls the information they need, while saving some of the more mature subjects for later on. While this book is meant to be read a few months before your daughter starts her menstrual cycle, it is best to determine the timing of reading this book based on your daughter’s physical and emotional readiness.
The Mission: Boy to Man by Tim Loper, Ami Loper (2011) Perfect Paperback
By: Tim and Amy Loper
Biblical Standard Publications
Best for ages 11-14
This book, written by the same authors of The Miracle of Change, addresses boys going through puberty. The book first discusses the mission of becoming a man by looking at puberty, abilities, and God’s calling from a biblical perspective. It then addresses how to remain strong in the battle for purity. The illustrations and adventure theme with topic summaries will appeal to pre-teen boys and help them stay engaged. This is a great book for dads to read with their sons to foster open communication about these crucial topics. The Amazon link above currently has an unreasonable price, but you can find this book at Parenting Made Practical as well!
Passport2Purity® Getaway Kit by FamilyLife – Version 3
By: Dennis and Barbara Rainey
Family Life Ministries
Best for ages 11-14
Passport2Purity™ is a popular curriculum parents have used to teach their kids about sex and purity over the last decade and was recommended by several moms. The third edition has new topics related to current sexual temptations and issues of today’s teens. Parents are encouraged to go on a mother/daughter or father/son retreat to listen to the material and discuss the topics together. I have heard several moms say they used some of the curriculum and it was very helpful but did not choose to do every audio and topic that was given. This is definitely a curriculum to study further and look through before presenting to your child, but may be a great resource to use! For further information visit Familylife.com where you can also buy packages just for girls or boys.
Preparing for Adolescence: How to Survive the Coming Years of Change
By: Dr. James Dobson
Revell Publications
Best for ages 12-15
This book has been a popular resource for Christian teens over the years and has continually been updated to keep up with the changing times. This book presents a more direct approach than others I have recommended, but it effectively explains how changes in the body can affect emotions and self-esteem, as well as how to deal with them. There are some controversial elements, so I would recommend reading it first yourself to determine if you have the same convictions and beliefs over every subject before giving it to your child. Family Guides and workbooks are also available and would make a great tool to discuss these topics as a family.
Bringing Up Girls and Bringing Up Boys by Dr. James Dobson are also great resources for parents and can also be found under the parent resources tab.
Passion and Purity: Learning to Bring Your Love Life Under Christ’s Control
By: Elisabeth Elliot
Revell Publications
Best for ages 16+
This is a classic, true love story written as a complication of Elisabeth’s diary entries, letters, and memories of her relationship with her late husband, Jim Elliot, before they were married. Jimwent on to be martyred for his faith in the jungles of Ecuador. The message is transparent and full of truth and wisdom about true love and putting God’s way above our own desires. It inspired me as a college student to wait for God’s timing with marriage, and I believe it will inspire other teens as well. In our self-centered culture that is predominantly about being happy and getting our needs met, I would highly recommend this book to give a refreshing perspective about taking the highroad and living for God when it comes to love and purity.