When should my child do the human reproduction unit?
This is a question many parents grapple with, and the answer is: it depends on your child. However, one thing is certain: most parents find they’ve waited too long to have these important conversations. Human reproduction isn’t a “one and done” discussion; it’s an ongoing dialogue that evolves as your child grows and matures.
Dr. Robin has designed the human reproduction unit within Every Body’s Human Biology to be flexible. It’s designed so that children can safely start with the first lesson at any age. From there, you can gauge their interest and readiness. A good indicator that they’re ready for the next part is if they start asking questions about the underlying mechanisms, like “Well, how do the genetics actually get anywhere?” This shows they’re ready to move beyond the surface level and delve deeper into the biology.
Your child can complete just the first lesson, the first two, or all of the core lessons, depending on their age and understanding. The core lessons focus on the biology of reproduction in a way that is unique and informative.
Many parents assume their child already knows the basics—the “tab A slot B” information. But true understanding goes beyond just knowing what happens; it’s about understanding why. If your child can’t explain the biological processes behind reproduction or if they approach the topic with a “tab A slot B” mentality rather than understanding it as a crucial part of science and biology, then revisiting the fundamentals through Dr. Robin’s lens is highly recommended.
Beyond the core lessons, there’s also a wealth of supplementary material covering a wide range of related topics. Dr. Robin, with her experience teaching thousands of tweens and teens and over a decade as a family physician, is confident that most children don’t have as comprehensive and scientifically accurate understanding as their parents might think. This unit provides an opportunity to fill those gaps and create a foundation for healthy, informed decision-making.
Ultimately, the best time to start the human reproduction unit is when you feel your child is ready. Open communication and a willingness to answer questions honestly and openly are key. Don’t be afraid to start the conversation early and revisit the material as your child’s understanding develops.