5 children's books to serenely approach sexuality and consent

Children's books are a goldmine for parents who feel helpless when faced with all their little ones' questions. Stories help children discover the world and society.

Yet, everything related to sexuality is completely absent. Since sex education is also lacking in schools, preconceived notions and traditional pornography take on the role of teaching.

Instead of being a wonderful adventure of discovery and pleasure, sex then becomes a codified performance game where you have to play a role to live up to expectations… At Puissante, we make self-exploration a path to well-being for both young people and adults. Here is a list of books to open up a kind and supportive discussion around these topics. 

Completely naked, sexuality from A to Z

Appropriately subtitled "a benevolent dictionary of sexuality", Tout nu tackles a still too taboo lexicon in a simple and uninhibited way.

The layout and careful illustrations make it easy to discover new terms that reflect the modern world.

Alongside entries related to anatomy such as testicles or fallopian tubes, there are definitions related to identity such as "trans" and to society such as "racism" or "dick pic".

Completely Naked is a truly inclusive guide to questions surrounding the end of childhood. It's an essential resource for opening up discussions, demystifying, explaining, and reassuring.

The Little Guide to the Sexual Vagina

Author Julia Petri, a committed advocate for positive sexuality, has written a comprehensive guide for girls and boys aged 4 to 12.

The book is divided into two main parts. The first deals with the body, both through anatomy and in terms of its emotions and the respect it deserves. It is here that we can put words to the concepts of intimacy and consent, which are sometimes difficult to explain even between adults.

The second part deals with the child's place in the world. Who is he/she in relation to his/her family, to the human species and in the great cycle of life.

The clear and accessible vocabulary illustrated by Victoire Doux makes this book a gem for advancing sex education in France. 

Neither doll nor superhero: My first anti-sexist manifesto

Are you looking for a book to help your children feel fully empowered to choose and act? My first anti-sexist manifesto helps break down taboos before they become ingrained in everyday life.

Throughout its pages, Delphine Beauvois' book encourages children to be 100% themselves. And we love that! 

A fish in the can

What if we answered the big question " But how are babies made ?" once and for all ?

Let's set aside the metaphors of cabbages and tiny seeds to gently and discreetly explain the conception of a child. "A Fish in the Belly" is a children's book full of poetry.

Masterfully illustrated by Magali Le Huche, the book tells the story of a woman who announces to her sweetheart that she has a little fish hidden in her belly, a bunny fish. The story follows the expectant father as he prepares for the baby's arrival.

Body, love, sexuality: the 120 questions your children will ask you

The last book in this selection is more for parents who are apprehensive about questions related to sexuality.

Perhaps you don't know when or how to approach these topics.
Perhaps you don't know what is OK to share and what is too soon to say.

This ultra-detailed guide will become your faithful ally in calmly answering all the questions your children may ask.

Author Charline Vermont is not only a mother, but also a sex therapist and sexual health educator. She conceived this book as a toolbox for positive sexuality. Parents can refer to it when they wish to address issues of consent, anatomy, communication, or respect.

The answers are designed to be inclusive and adapted to each child's maturity . If there were only one book to satisfy children's curiosity and support parents, this would be it! 

We hope this selection of detailed and supportive books about sexuality has inspired some gift ideas for the children and teenagers in your life. We firmly believe that the earlier taboos are broken down , the more comfortable we can feel in our bodies. It's that simple! If you're looking for adult books with a healthy dose of self-love, check out our selection.