*The Birds and the Bees*

It started with little things, like, noticing boobs on Barbies.

It grew to wondering why boys stand to use the bathroom.

It advanced to a first kiss behind a Kindergarten cubby—innocent and handled perfectly by all children, parental parties, and teachers—but, a kiss none-the-less.

Next, we heard whispers of playing MASH with friends and having first crushes.

Then, it was a school incident involving talk about Sex, which bought on embarrassment, and mostly, confusion and questions.

Finally, yesterday, it was a form home explaining that all 4^th, 5^th, and 6^th graders will be going through “health, personal hygiene, and the basics of menstruation” next week at school.

I’d like to say it snuck up on me without warning, but in retrospect, the Birds and Bees Talks have been coming all along—for our family, just like it has for every other family on the planet.  Sound advice I received from friends and family who have been through these Birds and Bees Talks includes:

• Keeping it age appropriate
• Keeping an open door for more questions and conversation
• Embracing this stage like all others

So, to you Birds and Bees Talk experts… What other advice can you share?