Reddit Reddit reviews The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls, Revised Edition (American Girl Library)

We found 48 Reddit comments about The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls, Revised Edition (American Girl Library). Here are the top ones, ranked by their Reddit score.

Children's Books
Books
Children's Health Books
Growing Up & Facts of Life
The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls, Revised Edition (American Girl Library)
Our best-selling body book for girls just got even better! With all-new illustrations and updated content for girls ages 8 and up, it features tips, how-tos, and facts from the experts.
Check price on Amazon

48 Reddit comments about The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls, Revised Edition (American Girl Library):

u/mackeya879 · 1128 pointsr/AskReddit

So im not a sex ed teacher. But my little sister was 13 and my brother had just gotten married. I mentioned to my sister that i thought it was weird that my brother is going to the same cabin as my father had for his honeymoon with my stepmom.

My little sister said it wasnt weird because sex is only for having babies, and since my brother didnt want kids for five years they wouldnt be having sex, and that my dad was too old to have kids so they also never have sex.

Explaining to her that there are more reasons for sex was awkward.

Also, my sister in law until she was 16 thought that sex meant you layed side by side and the sperm crawled out of the guys belly button and into the girls belly button.

We were all homeschooled, and christian.

Edit

In case anyone was wondering, my mother never gave any of us any kind of "growing up talk" no birds and the bees, no puberty nothing. She did put a copy of "the care and keeping of you" under my door with a note saying I should read it, it is an american girl company book on your changing body. Bras appeared in my drawers but nothing was ever said. There was a steady supply of sanitary products, but I never even told her I got my period I just figured it out. So yea, unless you looked it up yourself, you knew nothing.

http://www.amazon.com/The-Care-Keeping-You-Younger/dp/1609580834 (The book)

u/madsbrain · 530 pointsr/TwoXChromosomes

Yes to this! It's a great intro to pretty much anything that could be tricky development-wise! There's two versions: one target for girls 8-11 and one for girls 12+

u/J-nny4 · 435 pointsr/askwomenadvice

These American Girl books really helped me. My parents explained a couple things, but if I didn't want to ask I could look at these books: https://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Younger-American/dp/1609580834

edit: Spelling

Also, they are in two parts now, which is pretty cool.

u/ukelele_pancakes · 145 pointsr/TwoXChromosomes

Yes! Get all the American Girl books. There's a whole series on how a girl's body develops, how to deal with peer pressure, etc. Here's an Amazon link so you get an idea of what they're like. Start with this one, and get as many as you can where they are listed as "Customers who bought this also bought". I'm a female and have daughters, and I feel comfortable talking about this stuff, but it really helps if I forget to talk about something or if my kids forget what we've talked about.

p.s. You're an awesome person! Best wishes to you and your niece!

u/sylverbound · 80 pointsr/TrollXChromosomes

Factual information is never too much information at any age. A few book resources that could help follow:

It's Perfectly Normal

The Care and Keeping of You (there's also a second one)

This whole list with more

​

Also just keep in mind, honesty and accuracy are the most important things at this stage. If she's old enough to ask, she's old enough to be told at least some factual information about it. Obviously not explicit sexual stuff needed, but address anatomy, facts of reproduction, issues of consent, body image and body changes, etc. These are all appropriate when the child is already asking about things.

u/tralfamadorianMD · 36 pointsr/AskWomen

I remember my friend had a book called the "Girl Book" or something. It went into details about what a normal, healthy body looked like, with illustrations, including discharge in your underwear, pubic hair differences, etc. My mother could never talk to me about those things, and that book was INSANELY helpful. Before that book, I thought discharge meant I was pregnant because it started around the time I was being molested. Children's minds have no rhyme or reason sometime haha. I also had no idea how to clean properly, again something my mother never talked to me about. She basically pretended I didn't have a vagina. You may consider books like these: http://www.amazon.com/The-Care-Keeping-You-Younger/dp/1609580834

u/Ducky9202 · 19 pointsr/Parenting

I'm very sorry for your loss. You've already gotten a lot of really good advice, I just wanted to add on by directing you to The Care and Keeping of You. The whole series is really good and they talk about a lot of those "lessons" from shaving to tampons to how to deal with friend drama in middle school. My niece found it all really helpful especially because she hit puberty at 9 before all of her friends. Even in an open family there are somethings you're just embarrassed to ask about and these books are directed towards young girls and teaches them how to talk and deal with those things.

u/42356778 · 18 pointsr/LifeProTips

As most everyone replying has said, buy both! However, do not get OB tampons as they do not come with an applicator. Try to find something with a plastic (vs cardboard) applicator, as they are easier to insert. And avoid scented products, because those can cause general groin irritation.

Quick edit: Further advice. I found that having books about growing up helped me with knowing about my period. This was the book I liked most. It's slightly outdated, and might be embarrassing to buy for your daughter, but I guarantee it (or a similar book) will help both of you when the time comes.

u/Wishyouamerry · 16 pointsr/Parenting

American Girls makes awesome books for girls about every topic imaginable. The Care and Keeping of You is just what you need. My daughter really liked this book, and has liked all the AG titles I've given her.

u/CloudieKitt · 15 pointsr/NoStupidQuestions

My mom was also useless here, so my dad took me to see my female primary doctor who kindly recommended this book. It includes pictures on how to shave your body, how to insert a tampon, how to measure and choose bras, and other things that she will have to learn about herself and her body. It's a little awkward, but as long as your supportive and go through it with her, I think it will be a good experience for you both!

u/your-yogurt · 13 pointsr/AmItheAsshole

librarian here. NTA. if you feel it's too inappropriate, then you're in your right not to let them read it. here's the thing with kids, if they're not interested with a book, they'll put it down. your daughter may have started reading it because it has sex. she's at an age where she's gonna be curious about sex, puberty, and what feels good to her.

here's a book to get started: https://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Younger-American/dp/1609580834/ref=asc_df_1609580834/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312089887152&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4665373924568018919&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=t&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007654&hvtargid=pla-434856321575&psc=1

don't give it to her, leave it somewhere where she can find it. on the coffee table or amongst the magazines in the bathroom. if you try to force it on her, if you keep asking her if she's read it, she'll be resistant and won't touch it out of spite. let her come to it. be patient

while you're waiting, there are dozens of other books that can appeal to kids, even those who don't like reading. start with graphic novels. Big Nate, Bones, Smile, or even pokemon. get the popular books of today, not classics. Captain Underpants, Dork Diaries, Elephant and Piggy, percy jackson. don't worry if you think she's reading below her level. the point is to get her to read, period. hell, if she likes fanfiction, let her read it

read the books yourself. find out why kids like them, and make sure she sees you reading them. once again, don't force her to read, just give her options and let her figure out what she likes. even adults have the tendency to read one genre/author/subject for their entire lives.

go the local library and ask if they have any programs for her age range. anime club, 3-D printing, movie night, just so she can be familiar with the library, the local kids, and the librarians. treat your library like a second home. don't only go for homework reasons. summer reading is coming up, so ask about the special programs. this year's theme is space and the 50th anniversary of the moon landing.

u/MerryKerry · 12 pointsr/MakeupAddiction

I'd keep it limited to play makeup at home right now. How other people will see it, and how her peers will see it, are definitely part of the reason.

At that age they're starting to move toward more important relationships with their peers, who may not have any real perspective on makeup yet and won't necessarily know how to treat it or react.

Even if we don't present makeup as related to sexuality or believe it should be sexual, what other people think and do about it just isn't under our control.

Here an adolescent psychologist explains his view that "makeup should be granted to girls on a case-by-case basis and that moderation is important. The reason? Appearances can be misconstrued by peers and adults."

Self-consciousness is also a good reason to hold off on real makeup until later. Here is some research about how early makeup can affect self-image. It's great that you're teaching her healthy self-esteem to counter the social and media pressures.

It looks like other commenters already gave some good suggestions for play makeup options. There are also a number of books out there about healthy grooming that could be fun for her and fun bonding experiences too! The Care and Keeping of You is pretty popular. (edit typo)

u/LadyVerene · 12 pointsr/ABraThatFits

Aerie might have something that will fit her and that she likes, have you looked there?

As far as books, I don't recall the name offhand, but I think there was one like what you're looking for published by American Girl. I'll see if I can find it.

Edit: Found it! http://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Younger-Revised/dp/1609580834/

http://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Older-Girls/dp/1609580427/

u/p_iynx · 10 pointsr/booksuggestions

http://www.amazon.com/The-Care-Keeping-You-Younger/dp/1609580834

This was a great one. It's made by American Girl, and it's for younger girls, but talks about periods and all that. :)

http://www.amazon.com/The-Care-Keeping-You-Older/dp/1609580427/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_y/188-6395898-6290800

That's volume 2, for "older" girls. It might be better? Maybe just get both and let her peruse.

My sister is the same way, a very young 12. We gave her this book and it was gentle enough that she could read it without crippling embarrassment. It's also American Girl, which means it's "cute" and "cool" for a young-hearted girl that age!

u/Strawberrythirty · 7 pointsr/Parenting

I don't have kids this old yet but honestly. I'd sit down with her and have a good talk..she's at an age i think where she's just feeling insecure slightly clingy and attached to you (possible abandonment issues from dad?) and terribly ignorant about things within sexual nature.

she's 13 so i think its time you talk about sex with her in terms of how it's something adults do. How those toys are for you and that it doesn't mean you need a man. Humans just have basic needs and theyre totally healthy, sex is healthy not disgusting just as long as you are careful with your partners and friendships are healthy too and that if she loves you she will have to accept that you need friends in your life and not just her though she'll always be number 1. How she needs to stop being so nosy and just trust you as momma and respect you more. You need to bring this stuff up as well with her therapist assuming she still goes to one. And i agree with other people this isn't healthy. You two need to have hobbies, friends and time for yourselves, boundaries and rules definitely need to be set in place, she can not keep trying to regulate what you can and can't do like she's YOUR parent, and you need to stop feeling apologetic over it. I think the only good thing i see is that she feels comfortable enough to ask you things, thats great! Because most kids wont talk to their parents at all and ask their friends instead. So make sure when you talk to remind her that you love how she can come to you to talk about anything and that's why no matter who comes and goes from your life and hers that you'll always be there for her.

Also i plan on getting these for my daughter when she's older around your daughter's age, she's still a little one though so itll be a while :)
https://www.amazon.com/Feelings-Book-Revised-Keeping-Emotions/dp/1609581830/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1609581830&pd_rd_r=MTHPR5XD5SZTD38JZA7X&pd_rd_w=KEPlY&pd_rd_wg=hBtsI&psc=1&refRID=MTHPR5XD5SZTD38JZA7X

https://www.amazon.com/This-Normal-Revised-Questions-Answered/dp/1609589068/ref=pd_sim_14_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1609589068&pd_rd_r=TX19F1WHG257VDCE3WF1&pd_rd_w=wNkUa&pd_rd_wg=9GR1i&psc=1&refRID=TX19F1WHG257VDCE3WF1

https://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Younger-Revised/dp/1609580834/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1516748967&sr=8-1

u/minisnoo · 7 pointsr/Mommit

The Care and Keeping of You was recommended to me.

u/[deleted] · 6 pointsr/TwoXChromosomes

Talk to your medical professional and see if this book could have info that could help you. It has drawings of breast development that was super useful when I originally grew mine. I'm not sure if the info would transfer for you, but I referred to it until I was, like, 20 and finally left puberty. I was a super late bloomer, and grew until I was almost 21.

But, boobs can be huge with a tiny nipple, big honking ones, or vice versa. You're probably just going to have to wait and see what your body does.

This is really something you should take to your doctor. We can speculate, but I'm not sure how right any of us will be for your breast development. Plus, a lot of us were insecure messes when we grew boobs, so who knows how accurate our years later views are.

Once everything settles, a bra fitted by an expert can get you the cleavage you want in general. I'm a 34D with fairly perky boobs, and a small frame. I'm not getting sexy cleavage without the right bra; my boobs are shy, I guess. But, both small and large boobs can have large or small nipples.

u/PanicAtTheCostco · 6 pointsr/TwoXChromosomes

I seriously cannot recommend this book enough, The Care and Keeping of You. It was a great reference and information source for me when I was growing up. Completely age-appropriate for 10 year old girls; that's when I was given a copy by my mum. She let me check it out and then told me that she'd be happy to talk about anything that was in it. Very low pressure, puts the control in your kid's hands :)

There are also two versions, one for younger girls (8-10ish) and one for young teenagers (12+). They address personal hygiene, development, periods, etc. in a very straightforward and positive way.

u/MeowtainBabe · 6 pointsr/Mommit

There is an American Girl book called Taking Care of You. You can find it on Amazon, at Books a Million, or Barnes and Noble.

The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls, Revised Edition (Ame... https://www.amazon.com/dp/1609580834/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_4UgDCbSPQ8EEP

u/kg51 · 4 pointsr/Parenting

We have What's the Big Secret and my 4.5 year old loves it. There's also It's Not the Stork, though I haven't read that one personally. I have The Care and Keeping of You saved for when she's older...not sure how much it covers where babies come from, though it felt related enough to bring up here :) We just go for honest age-appropriate answers to questions--trying not to give TOO much information and just answering what was asked (which is hard).

Edit to add: We also use proper anatomy terms. She knows she has a vulva, boys have a penis, dads have the sperm, mom has the egg, babies grow in the uterus. She also knows about fallopian tubes and vas deferens, but gets them mixed up, which I find hilarious.

u/deceasedhusband · 4 pointsr/MaliciousCompliance

Sounds like you're doing good. Definitely better to start earlier rather than later with these talks. My dad always used technical terms for body parts with me (penis, vagina, etc.) and answered all my questions in a matter of fact and age appropriate manner.

I've also heard good things from this book though it came out after I grew up so I've never actually read it:

https://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Younger-Revised/dp/1609580834

u/ladymagglz · 4 pointsr/TheGirlSurvivalGuide

I was also an early bloomer, and grew pubic and underarm hair around her age, although didn’t menstruate until 11 or 12. I was especially sensitive and embarrassed about it, since my 2 closest friends were years behind that. Three things come to mind:

  • I’m sure it’s only a little bit of hair and will be that way for a while, so there shouldn’t be any issues with bikini lines this summer, or maybe next summer, but keep an eye out for it. My mom bought me full coverage boy short bikini bottoms, which were popular at the time, and it covered everything. For gymnastics and swim team, my mom helped me use Nair a few times since I wasn’t shaving my legs yet and wasn’t comfortable with a razor. Luckily it takes a few years for it to grow into your bikini line though.

  • Underarm hair will be arriving soon, if not already. I was especially fortunate to have black underarm hair even though I was blonde everywhere else. It was even hard to hide in winter because of gymnastics so I switched to long sleeve leotards. For the summer months, my mother would cut it using small cuticle scissors in the bathroom. Then I used nair until I was ready to shave. Body odor sticks to hair so make sure she’s aware of that.

  • Start thinking about switching to a female pediatrician if you don’t already have one. I was much more comfortable talking with my doctor when I switched from an old man to a younger female doctor.

    Writing this, I’m realizing how well my mom handled this situation. At that age I was very sensitive and my biggest fear was that I was growing up and leaving my friends behind. I felt left out of being a kid. “Why me,” kind of questions. My mom said everything was secret between her and I and she wouldn’t tell anyone -even my aunts, my dad, or my brother.

    The book, The Care and Keeping of You is great. I liked to be able to have a book to look through and learn without being embarrassed. This was before internet.

    Lastly, one thing that helped me embrace my changing body was a skincare routine. I loved having all my products. It was just face wash and moisturizer, but it made me feel super cool. Try something gentle like Cetaphil or Cerave, and nothing that says “acne” if she doesn’t need it.


u/Wesa · 3 pointsr/BabyBumps

If it's a girl, you'll figure it out.

My stepmom raised me and I didn't get those talks either. I was teased and/or yelled at when the subject of makeup, hair, boys, etc came up. I now have a 15 month old daughter and I've decided that when the time comes, I'll pay for make up classes or have my SIL help with teaching her how to do it (if daughter's friends don't do it first). There are also great books out there about the body (like this one I saw recommended on Reddit) that I'll pick up for her in a few years.

u/noodleparty · 3 pointsr/askwomenadvice

This is literally the best book ever. I had it since I was around 9 and it was so informative and has great info!

Edit: $8 on Amazon with prime shipping too!
link to book

u/CleverGirlDolores · 3 pointsr/AskParents

Why not be in charge of conversation, so that you have control over what your daughter begins to learn, instead of letting your daughter accidentally learn it from someone else, somewhere else? We (parents) were the ones who brought up birds and bees with our daughter and didn't wait for her to get curious. Just like we did with other topics - Hey kiddo, do you know why bears hibernate? Hey kiddo, how do you think babies are made? At first we'd let her tell us and then guide her towards the right answers. Not all at once of course, but with each conversation.

Don't wait, get your daughter It's not the stork, and The care and keeping of you and read the first few pages together. Then let her read the books by herself and let her know that you're always there if she has any questions. That's what we did with my oldest. Sex topics are as mundane in our household as discussing groceries and our 9 year old has 0 reservations coming to us with any questions.

Is it possible your daughters are not asking you anything because they don't feel comfortable asking you about such topics? Do they know that they can come to you and ask about anything under the sun?

How did the bra come about? Did your daughter go to your ex and told him she wanted a bra?

Did your ex just go out and buy one? In that case, I would thank him for being thoughtful, but remind him that perhaps she isn't ready for it yet. Obviously the best solution here is to be on the same page with your ex, so perhaps you can start a dialog where despite your differences you both want what's best for your kids and not trying to present yourself as a better parent while the other one sucks.

u/juliekablooie · 3 pointsr/TheGirlSurvivalGuide

Hey so along with all the great advice in here, there's this really incredible book called The Care and Keeping of You, it's by the American Girl brand which I think most christians support pretty well. It goes over everything and is intended to be read by girls your age, so it shouldn't be that confusing or vague. It's a really popular book and is still accurate today, so I'd highly recommend seeing if you can get your hands on it!

Here's a link to it on amazon: The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls, Revised Edition (American Girl Library) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1609580834/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i6xVBbXR7JS5P

u/capncait · 3 pointsr/askwomenadvice

You should order The Care and Keeping of You. It might be an American Girl product, but it is incredibly well-researched and written in an affirming way. There's now two editions, one for younger girls and one for older girls. Get them both. At minimum, read the younger book together. Use the correct terminology as much as you can.

u/cheesegoat · 2 pointsr/Parenting

I hope you see this. Check out "The Care and Keeping of You": http://amzn.com/1609580834. It's basically a how-to book for girls, and seems perfect for your situation. Since your daughter is apprehensive about asking other people questions, hopefully this book can answer those for her. Note that there is a sequel for older girls which may be more appropriate for your daughter.

u/turtlehana · 2 pointsr/Parenting

When she starts to get body odor, when she starts to develop, when hair starts coming in, and/or when blemishes start you could sit with her and talk about hygiene, menstruation, feminine hygiene products, bras, etc.

Maybe 10 or 11 unless she develops earlier. I started shaving, wearing training bras, and using deodorant when I was 9.

Some of the discussions should be ongoing as her body changes and discussion of birth control could be discussed by middle school. It is important she knows she can come to you and ask questions with out judgement.

When she starts middle school you should also discuss peer pressure and pressure in relationships. She doesn't have to do anything she doesn't want to, it's okay to say no. Discuss drug abuse, how it'd make you feel if she used drugs, reprocussions, etc.

Book 1

Book 2

u/ShesMyCupofTea · 2 pointsr/asktransgender

I consider myself a very feminine person, but I'm not necessarily "girly": I don't shave my legs, do my nails, wear makeup, have my hair done, wear anything more fashionable than jeans and tank tops, etc. I find it amusing and noteworthy that my spouse does and will be doing most of these things as he gets further into his transition. It's also kind of distressing because, as much help and expertise as I want to offer, there's a lot that I personally simply don't know.

I read a lot of books as a preteen. In fact, this book from when I was a kid is still around and is unanimously recommended in my mommy groups for people with daughters who are getting to that age: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1609580834 I don't remember specifically what topics it covers, other than the basics, but maybe it's a place to start!

u/PJulia12 · 2 pointsr/BabyBumps

I hope this helps. It might be a little head of her age but I loved this book as a child! My mom never really explained it to me (the birds and the bees) haha but I did get this book for Christmas. I loved it. It shows you how to handle many aspects of going through puberty, periods and all that adult stuff. (In kid form) so maybe when she's older this can help too! Link is below.




http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1609580834/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1418386632&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

u/NohoTwoPointOh · 2 pointsr/SingleDads

Much of it comes from Puritanical roots. Perhaps things are different now, but when I was young, Judeo-Christian households carried a certain amount of shame associated with sex, sexual organs, and discussions about them.

More shame and discomfort also comes from society trying to paint every man as some kind of molester. This may even be the biggest factor. This is nothing more than internalized misandry that men must overcome for the sake of their daughters. But internalized misandry it is. There is also external misandry. When shopping pre-K schools for my daughter, I asked if there were any male teachers (as I prefer a balance). I was told by a female teacher that it would be considered a "safety risk" by many parents. I wanted to tell her that sexual abuse convictions of female educators have tripled in the past decade. But I noped right out of there and found a better school. That said, this is what dads face on a daily basis.

As men, it is very easy for us to internalize such blatant misandry. My example is simply one of many that we face each week. Luckily, I did not have the same amount of religious programming as my peers. I just had to face society's anti-male pressures. I can see it being more difficult for my peers who were raised in parochial schools and deeply religious homes.

It takes a mindset to say "Fuck em. This is my daughter and I am her father. We can talk about our bodies. We should talk about our bodies. There is nothing wrong, shameful or dirty about it. "

I was the first to comfortably broach the subject with my daughter. I taught her to wipe and why there is an order of operations. She would happly sing the "Down in the front, up in the back" song that I taught her. Ask her why? "So I don't get Mr. Germ and Mrs. Bacteria in my buh-gina..." Fucking hilarious! And that's exactly what the topic needs, right? A bit of child-like levity.

What has also helped me is to use books from cultures that are not ashamed of the body.

The "where did I come from" question was addressed at 2-3 years old with this one. There are some other Japanese books we used, but I cannot find them online.

Body functions

Undergarments

When they get older this one is more appropriate.

I have to admit, the more you read and talk with them about the subject, the easier it gets. I also got kids' anatomy books to go over the various systems. Using clinical terms helps remove discomfort as does talking about genitals in terms of our pets ("Sada the dog has testicles because he is a boy dog. Men and boys also have testicles just like Sada".)

Regarding inappropriate touching, I find that fathers are probably better at explaining boundaries as we are usually the ones who are more adept at setting clear and consistent boundaries for our children through fatherly discipline. Once we were comfortable discussing the body, it was easy to discuss inappropriate touches. We checked this book out from the library. Good concept, mediocre execution. This one was much better and enjoyable.

These books (and subsequent discussions) helped us set a baseline and standard in the younger years builds trust that moves on to the adolescent and pre-teen years. One of the men in our Dad's Group has a teenage daughter. He was the one who taught her daughter different ways of dealing with her period (cup vs pad vs tampon). He has a wonderful bond with his daughter that was set quite early. That guy has been a great influence on all and has helped many of us remove the shame and stigma around approaching the female body.

A few random factors.

- I grew up in a multi-generational house that had at least 2 girls and women at any one time.

- I have also had plenty of girlfriends and serious (cohabitating) relationships. One girlfriend had ovarian cysts, one girlfriend had very unusually rough 7-day periods. Of course, we discussed these things together.

- I probably found my parents' copy of "The Joy of Sex" at a bit of an early age, too.

- I was the first class in my state to have sex-ed in school. This is when I was living in America. It was very controversial, as we started as 5th graders. Many parents protested this (again, American Puritan roots).

All of these things demystified female genitals and has helped with my comfort with discussions around the female body.

A bit of a ramble. But it breaks my heart to see fathers allow terrible people to drive a wedge between them and successful parental relationships with their daughters. I am skeptical of university studies, as most seek to paint men is a negative light. Perhaps this study will be no different. But maybe this post might help some dads with their discussions and relationships with daughters.

u/plssendmegifts · 2 pointsr/TwoXChromosomes

This book is frequently recommended, if you want to give her a reference. You can (obviously) get it on Amazon, or Barnes and Noble would have it if you want it now.

https://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Younger-Revised/dp/1609580834

u/wanderer333 · 2 pointsr/Parenting

Second this - never hurts to have a reference she can look through with you and later on her own. Also The Care and Keeping of You 1 is a good basic intro for younger girls (and later, book 2 for older girls).

u/starrkill · 1 pointr/Parenting

This is a good book to look into: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1609580834

u/aciara · 1 pointr/TwoXChromosomes

So sorry for your loss but it's great that you're helping her get through this.
When I was younger, I had the American Girl book everyone is suggesting. It really is a big help!
As for periods: if she uses tampons for the first time, make sure she remembers to change them regularly and watch for symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome. Some girls experience them immediately after putting them on and they should be removed and should get to a hospital. Pads are the safer way to go, IMO. Good luck to you two!

Edit: typo.

u/polymama · 1 pointr/Parenting

This is great: The Care and Keeping of You. I wish I'd had this around for myself, my mom seriously dropped the damn ball. /u/polydad - get this for the bebe!

u/pollygolightly · 1 pointr/SkincareAddiction

I'd order her a simple kit and have it shipped directly to her, or go to your local drug store and send things in the bottles they come in (mason jars: so heavy). Cerave and Paula's choice are favourites around here.

You'll want to send:

  • Moisturizer - try Cerave PM
  • Broad spectrum SPF of at least 30, Ombre is really great and matte for the face (Neutrogena stings when it runs into the eyes)
  • You could encourage her to try oil cleansing with a hot wash cloth, rather than using those drying "teen" acne washes that are advertised so heavily. With oil cleansing, you rub on something non-clogging (like unscented mineral oil), massage it into the skin briefly, and then gently rub it off with a wash cloth. It's pretty easy to do in the shower. See the sidebar.
  • Instructions on the order in which to use these things. Again, see sidebar.
  • Care and Keeping of You, http://www.amazon.ca/The-Care-Keeping-You-Revised/dp/1609580834
u/ElvishLlama · 1 pointr/AskReddit
u/everdancing · 1 pointr/AskWomen

My parents gave me two books called The Care and Keeping of You and The Care and Keeping of Me pre-puberty. They were very helpful, and written a level little me (9 year old, maybe?) understood.

I just looked, and it seems they've revised the two books into one for younger girls, and one for older girls. I haven't read these, but they're probably still great. They answered a lot of questions I didn't even know I had, and prepared me for stuff I would have been scared of. In fact, I was so well prepared I was excited for my first period, not freaked out at all. I'd highly recommend getting one for your daughter.

The Care and Keeping of You for Younger Girls

The Care and Keeping of You for Older Girls

u/bookwench · 1 pointr/booksuggestions

Huh. Funny bunch of parenting recommendations on here... ಠ_ಠ

Are you interested in early stage development or later ages? There's a ton of stuff out there on both.

Anyways, it's not a book, but definitely start here, it's an awesome article: http://www.quora.com/What-is-the-evolutionary-benefit-or-purpose-of-having-periods/answer/Suzanne-Sadedin?share=1


Aside from "What to Expect when you're expecting" - which is the standard guide - you should definitely check out the Mayo Clinic book. They're the source for medical information of all kinds.


Then there are a ton of books. Seriously, most folks just google "parenting books" and then pick out whichever ones seem to suit them - and by suit them, I mean "which books seem most likely to tell them to parent how they want to parent", so. Beware looking for things which will reinforce your own preconceived (ha! conceived, it's a pun... never mind) ideas on what you should and shouldn't do.

Mostly, just use the basic baby books - they're ok - and get the kid to an age where you're not as afraid it's gonna die in its sleep, and then start doing fun stuff. Like reading to it - the biggest things with babies is that you touch them, hold them, play with them, spend time and attention on them. That's it. That's all they want. Food, clean diapers, and every single scrap of your attention all the time.

Oh yeah, and definitely immunize the little monsters, you don't want to be that person who lets the measles loose in your school and has to deal with the parent of the kid who went deaf from it.


I've been sending books to my sister's kid for ages, so I'll include some links... oh shit, Amazon's gonna be recommending all kinds of pregnancy books to me now because I searched for that Mayo clinic book. Crap.

So I've been sending all kinds of books. Like, books on zen, books on Native American stories, books on everything. Fantasy, mystery, whatever. But books on actual development - meant for kids, but might be interesting to see what people are recommending for kids: The Care and Keeping Of You

The Care and Keeping Of Your Emotions


Aside from all that.... a lot of books are written to say simple things. Be constant with kids and don't give into tantrums, be firm, be reasonable, don't be wishy washy, don't be mean, don't get upset if you can help it, and kids aren't sweet innocent things - they're pretty much psychopathic utter assholes until you teach them not to be.


Other interesting books:

The Boy Who Was Raised As A Dog


Born For Love

What's Going On In There? First 5 Years


u/Peachyykween · 1 pointr/askwomenadvice

https://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Younger-American/dp/1609580834/ref=nodl_

This book was a godsend when I was going through puberty. It taught me everything I needed to know about hormones, periods, bras, hygiene, emotional changes, etc.

It’s about $5-7 on Amazon and it was an amazing resource when I was growing up.

I would also recommend looking into the way her school approaches sex education. Some schools still take a religious or abstinence-based standpoint which can contain factually inaccurate or less than helpful advice.

I would make sure she understands what healthy relationships look like; how to use her voice if she needs to say no to something, and has the comfortably to come to you if she is in a situation she needs to get out of (I.e. picking her up if she calls to leave a party).

Make sure she has the information or training to practice proper self defense, and feels empowered to listen to her inner voice to stand up against peer pressure.

Make sure she has someone to talk to about body image and has a healthy relationship to food. Being in sports or other personal growth building activities can help immensely in building confidence in young women.

Most of all, make sure she knows that you love her, and are there for her. Give her ideas for someone to talk to if she needs a woman to ask questions to about embarrassing topics.

I also highly recommend keeping the following in her bathroom: tampons, lube (for said tampons, the first time using can be painful and scary), pads, wet wipes, condoms, and emergency contraception. The latter might be saved for when she’s a bit older, and if you aren’t comfortable purchasing these things for her, I strongly recommend taking her to planned parenthood when she is ready so that she can make safe and informed decisions about birth control.

Best of luck!!!

u/avocadontfckntalk2me · 1 pointr/askwomenadvice

The only logistical issue I can think of is how to use a tampon. A lot of girls I know had women to demonstrate it to them. However, there is a great book (let me look for the link and I’ll provide it) called “the care and keeping of you” by the company that makes American girl dolls that has diagrams for how to use a tampon. As awkward as it is though, make sure she knows to push the applicator all the way up to her cervix.

Edit: link

https://www.amazon.com/Care-Keeping-You-Younger-American/dp/1609580834/ref=asc_df_1609580834_nodl/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312089887152&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16111434728789237562&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9009968&hvtargid=pla-434856321575&psc=1

u/Quinlynn · 1 pointr/TwoXChromosomes

Depending on how much she knows, you could look into ordering her [this American girl book](The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls, Revised Edition https://www.amazon.com/dp/1609580834/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_bjABxb7HF4TXS) or the second version of it. If you have Amazon prime you can get one day shipping for not that much more. It will tell her all the basics of what she needs to know.

u/KosherDill · 1 pointr/TrollXChromosomes

Mine too. I also want to get him/her an informational book so that we they can also look through and think about it on their own time. My mom had "the talk" with me but I really enjoyed reading puberty type books and referring back to it if I had any questions I was still too embarrassed to ask my mom. We also didn't have the internet but I don't think I want my child referring to Dr. Google for sexual and reproductive questions.

Something like this

u/Pudums · 1 pointr/AskWomen

I hit puberty at 11 and my mom gave me "The Care and Keeping of You." It was just the right amount of stuff at that age and I memorized that book within a few days. I highly recommend that you pick up a copy and read it for yourself first, then pass it off to them in a couple years.

u/alex_moose · 1 pointr/Parenting

I'm hopping on the top comment thread to recommend [The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls - American Girl Library] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/1609580834/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_zp6lDbSDNEM48)

It covers a lot of topics, in short chunks. So if you're not sure how to start talking about this stuff, just read a page or two together and ask if she has questions. Do that regularly and you'll have a good open dialog going.

For those who are already talking to their girls, it helps make sure you cover all the topics they need to know. We used it as a supplement to conversation.

This is book 1, designed for ages 8 and up. It does introduce periods. Book 2 is for older girls.