Wait, What?: A Comic Book Guide to Relationships, Bodies, and Growing Up
Wait, What? A Comic Book Guide to Relationships, Bodies, and Growing Up Series
What’s inside...
From Heather Corinna, founder and director of Scarleteen.com, and Isabella Rotman, cartoonist and sex educator, comes a graphic novel guide that covers essential topics for preteens and young teens about their changing bodies and feelings. Join friends Malia, Rico, Max, Sam, and Alexis as they talk about all the weird and exciting parts of growing up! This supportive group of friends are guides for some tricky subjects. Using comics, activities and examples, they give encouragement and context for new and confusing feelings and experiences. Inclusive of different kinds of genders, sexualities, and other identities, they talk about important topics like: - Bodies, including puberty, body parts and body image - Sexual and gender identity - Gender roles and stereotypes - Crushes, relationships, and sexual feelings - Boundaries and consent - The media and cultural messages, specifically around bodies and sex - How to be sensitive, kind, accepting, and mature - Where to look for more information, support and help A fun and easy-to-read guide from expert sex educators that gives readers a good basis and an age-appropriate start with sex, bodies and relationships education! The perfect complement to any school curriculum.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-14
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways the characters in the book handle their feelings about growing up? How does that relate to how you feel?
What did you learn about relationships and respecting others' boundaries from the characters?
How do the characters in the book communicate when they are uncomfortable or need help? Can you think of a time you felt similar and how you handled it?
What are some differences and similarities you noticed between your body and understanding of it, and what the characters discuss?
The book talks about changes during growing up. What change are you most curious about, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin discussions with your child by sharing your own feelings or experiences relevant to the book’s themes to create a comfortable conversational space. Listen actively and validate their feelings, emphasizing that it's normal to have questions about growing up. Encourage them to ask questions at any time, assuring them there are no 'wrong' questions when learning about themselves and others. Use examples from the book to illustrate points and relate them back to their daily experiences or observations. Lastly, make it clear that these discussions are private and safe, reinforcing trust and openness.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding consent and boundaries
Explanation: The book explains the importance of respecting personal space and seeking permission in various scenarios, which is crucial for developing healthy relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by always asking for consent before engaging in any form of physical touch or entering personal spaces, which fosters respect and safety among peers.
Example Lesson: Recognizing and respecting diversity
Explanation: Through its characters and storytelling, this guide demonstrates the diversity in human bodies and relationships, promoting acceptance and inclusivity.
Real-World Application: This helps children appreciate differences in their classmates and community members, promoting a more inclusive and harmonious social environment.
Example Lesson: Navigating puberty and bodily changes
Explanation: The comic book addresses common questions and concerns related to puberty in an accessible and relatable way, empowering children with knowledge about their bodies.
Real-World Application: Children can use this information to understand and cope with their own developmental changes, reducing anxiety and building self-confidence during a pivotal stage of growth.
Example Lesson: Effective communication skills
Explanation: The dialogue between characters in different scenarios highlights the importance of clear and honest communication, particularly when discussing sensitive topics.
Real-World Application: Children can employ these communication skills in everyday interactions, enhancing their ability to express themselves and understand others, ultimately improving relationships.
Example Lesson: Building healthy relationships
Explanation: The book presents various aspects of relationships, including friendships and romantic relationships, emphasizing respect, empathy, and mutual understanding as foundational elements.
Real-World Application: This equips children with the tools to form and maintain positive and supportive relationships, which are essential for emotional and social development.