Community Resources and Hotlines

    • Alameda County Rapid Response Hotline:
      (510) 241-4011

    • Contra Costa Rapid Response Hotline:
      (925) 900-5151

  • This reading list is designed for parents and caregivers who want support in talking with their children about bodies, boundaries and the changes that come with growing up. It offers reliable, age appropriate books that families can use to supplement school learning or to begin these conversations earlier at home if that feels right.

    At Ruth Acty, students receive health education in 5th grade as part of the regular curriculum. Over four days, about 5 to 6 total hours, teachers lead lessons adapted from Superstar Health Education that focus on puberty, hormones and the physical and emotional changes connected to development. These lessons are accurate, inclusive and supportive of every student's experience.

    Your Whole BodyLizzie DeYoung Charbonneau (Ages 2–6)
    The Every Body BookRachel E. Simon (Ages 7–12)
    What Makes a BabyCory Silverberg (Ages 3–8)
    Trans+: Love, Sex, Romance, and Being YouKathryn Gonzales & Karen Rayne (Ages 14–18)
    Let’s Talk About Down ThereDr. Jennifer Lincoln (Ages 14–18)
    All About PenisesMarshall Miller & Dorian Solot (Ages 3–7)
    A Puberty Guide for Every BodyTrish Hutchison, Kathryn Lowe & Melisa Holmes (Ages 9–12)
    Guy Stuff: The Body Book for BoysCara Natterson (Ages 8–12)
    Puberty Is Gross But Also Really AwesomeGina Loveless (Ages 9–13)
    Vaginas and Periods 101Christian Hoeger & Kristen Lilla (Ages 7–11)
    How To Talk To Your Kids About Porn (for parents/caregivers)
    Do Animals Fall in Love?Katharina von der Gathen (Ages 8–12)
    What’s Happening to Me? (Girls Edition)Susan Meredith (Ages 9–14)
    About Boobs and Butts (About Bs and As)Author unknown
    Wait, What? A Comic Book Guide to Relationships, Bodies, and Growing UpHeather Corinna & Isabella Rotman (Ages 10–14)
    Body Drama: Real Girls, Real Bodies, Real Issues, Real AnswersNancy Amanda Redd (Ages 14+)
    You: A Book About Your BodyAuthor unknown
    Celebrate Your Body (and Its Changes Too!)Sonya Renee Taylor (Ages 8–12)
    Sex Is a Funny WordCory Silverberg (Ages 8–12)
    Yes, No, Maybe SoBecky Albertalli & Aisha Saeed (Ages 12–15)