It's important to us to raise our daughters into women who are completely autonomous and responsible for their sexual lives. I want them to know, when the time comes, that sex should be pleasurable and not something solely for reproductive purposes. Our morals dictate that all acts between consenting adults in love are not only acceptable but something to be celebrated. My original question was not asked to suggest that I feel my children are "adults" nor that I intend to "ruin" their childhoods. I appreciate the judgment-free responses received very, very much.

I truly appreciate the range of responses! A lot of these are topics I'm not comfortable addressing at their young ages. I will wait until they are older before delving into some of the aforementioned topics. Any book suggestions for those more mature topics? Are any of Dr. Christiane Northrup's books easy to digest for teens?

My 10 year old DD has begun puberty. We have always had an open policy regarding sex education and questions, with answers being age-appropriate. I read some articles on Psychology Today and wonder if a lot of these must-knows for my DD's age range are necessary for a non-public school educated child to know at this age? Both of my daughters (ages 9 and 10) are very modest (their choice) and while I do not want to leave anything necessary out, I am wondering if my 10 year old needs to know about sex toys, anal and oral sex, etc., at this point in her life? I don't want to teach or not teach anything damaging at this young age, and I am at a loss as to what the right course is, education wise. They understand the changes their bodies and boys' bodies will go through during puberty, and the emergence of feelings that will be new. We have "Growing Up: It's A Girl Thing" and some where-babies-come-from titles but I've never delved consistently into sex as anything other than reproductive since they have not yet been at all interested in learning about sex. We have always taught them the proper words for body parts and bodily functions. That their bodies and genitals are theirs, not for someone else to touch until they are much older and in a happy, respectful relationship, and not due to any pressure placed upon them. That mature adults who care for each other are the people who should be having sex. They've learned about birth control and their right to say no at any time, and to never feel pressure to do anything with someone if they don't want to. I feel now that we are far behind and lacking in what they need to know, and I wonder how to catch up while respecting their modest sensibilities. What are your experiences in teaching (secular) sex education to your children? What do children need to know at 9 and 10? Thank you.

My childhood best friend started at 8 and had developed earlier than that. She definitely grew more in height though, her adult height is about 5'4. I'd honestly be more concerned about the hormones in dairy than in chicken.

I'd write down what exactly I was hoping to score - usbn numbers, editions, etc. And, I'd write down the lowest price I found online, just to compare and check if it was worth it. Best of luck!

I really appreciate the responses and suggestions! Thank you everyone!

This thread is fantastic. I never cease to be grateful for the kindness of homeschoolers sharing their wisdom. :001_smile:

A yoga / exercise ball as a seat is a great idea - I always enjoyed mine (until DH broke it accidentally). I'll have to pick one up for DD2.

Wow, thank you so much for sharing the link - there is so much in here to go through! I wish I could like this more than once. :)

I wanted to add that they are 8 and 9 years old, and a 2nd - 3rd grade level in math.

DD1 is a visual learner, she is very intense, developmentally delayed, and has some behavioral issues. DD2 is a highly kinesthetic learner and can not sit still for anything. This isn't an issue in anything other than math as for everything else she's just on the move. We started formal schooling late for both girls and this has worked out well as we're able to move ahead where it's warranted and stay behind in other areas. For math, we've used Math Mammoth up until this point, mostly successfully. DD2 is terribly bored, hates sitting still for it, hates how the written questions are worded, and is beginning to loathe math, formerly her favorite subject. I would like to find something that will work for both children - suggestions would be very greatly appreciated. Thank you!

This is the edition I prefer as well. I bought it used on Amazon for about $5., inlcuding shipping.

When I was in this situation, I read over a bunch of threads on WRTR here. Here is a thread that I found very helpful. http://forums.welltrainedmind.com/topic/379847-the-writing-road-to-reading/ I didn't buy the program - I bought the book and implementing the techniques helped my two children greatly.

This is so timely for us - thank you everyone!

Three of the most adamant nevers in my 20's and early 30's - never move away from NYC, never marry, and never reproduce. In the years since, I've done all three, more than once. :001_smile:

While I am not anti-public school it is not a viable option for us either, we've always homeschooled and will continue to do so.

Hello everyone. I really hate introductions since I never really know what to write. But here goes, my DH and I always planned on home education and now I homeschool my two children and we're really enjoying the journey.

Honestly? No, I really don't. I try to only get what I need for the year. That being said, well, if I came across something fantastic at a garage sale or thrift shop or something - I'd buy it in a second. :001_smile: Sorry for not introducing myself in the proper place, but hello!