There’s no denying it: Discussing sex and the private functions of the human body can make us uncomfortable. Part of being a parent or caregiver is having difficult conversations with your children to prepare them for a complex and confusing world. But at what age do we start talking to kids about sex? What information is appropriate at what time? How do we help our kids protect themselves without instilling unnecessary fear or confusion? How can we best prepare our children to protect themselves and understand how to take care of their bodies?

In the six lessons of How to Talk to Your Kids About Sex, you will join sex and health educator Justine Ang Fonte as she guides you through a holistic approach to sex education for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens. And this education isn’t just about having direct conversations or teaching lessons—it’s also about cultivating a safe space where children feel comfortable asking questions without judgement or shame. You will learn not only how to explain various topics concerning sex and the body, but also how to model the behaviors that will teach your kids more than you may even realize. Through discussion and creating an environment that encourages learning, you will be able to broach subjects like consent, boundaries, puberty, sexual identity, relationships, physical attraction, and self-care.

It is important to remember that sex and sexuality surround us, even if we don’t always notice. And our values, opinions, and behaviors in relation to them are constantly being witnessed and evaluated by young minds. They deserve to know the facts, to know how to ask for information, and to have the resources they need to take care of their bodies so they can be sexually healthy now and as they mature into adulthood.