Talking to Kids About Body Awareness, Puberty & Sex :: Megan Michelson & Mary Flo Ridley *top 10 episode* [Ep 570]

Talking to kids about sex can feel overwhelming—but avoiding the conversation doesn’t make it easier. In this replay episode, Megan Michelson and Mary Flo Ridley break down how to approach these important topics in a way that feels natural, age-appropriate, and shame-free. Instead of relying on a single, awkward “talk,” they encourage parents to build an ongoing dialogue that evolves as kids grow. From early childhood curiosity to teenage years and deeper conversations about puberty and masturbation, this episode offers practical tools to help you stay calm, confident, and connected. We cover how to introduce basic biology (like seeds, eggs, and conception), how to respond when your child isn’t interested in the conversation, and why tone matters more than perfection. You’ll also learn how to navigate common parenting moments—like little ones exploring their bodies—without shame, while still setting healthy boundaries. As kids get older, the conversation shifts. Megan and Mary Flo share how to approach puberty, why “shoulder-to-shoulder” conversations can be more effective than face-to-face talks, and how to handle more complex topics like masturbation in a way that balances honesty, guidance, and emotional awareness. If you’ve ever felt unsure about when to start, what to say, or how to say it—this episode will give you a clear, grounded approach. What You’ll Learn: Why “the talk” doesn’t work—and what to do instead How to start conversations about bodies and sex at a young age Age-appropriate language for explaining reproduction and biology What to do when your child avoids or shuts down the conversation Why tone and delivery matter more than saying everything perfectly Connect with Birds & Bees: Website: Birds and Bees Instagram: Birds and Bees | Online Course | Megan Michelson (@birds__bees) Links Mentioned: God's Design for Sex Series: By Stan &Brenna Jones Wild Things: The Art of Nurturing Boys By David Thomas Related Episodes: Gender and Sexuality:: Preston Sprinkle [Ep 370] Let’s Talk about Sex:: Mary Flo Ridley and Megan Michelson [Ep 328] Sexual Identity and Radical Ordinary Hospitality:: Dr. Rosaria Butterfield [Ep 301] Featured Sponsors: Thrive Causemetics: Amplify your spring look with Thrive Causemetics. Go to thrivecausemetics.com/DMA for an exclusive offer of 20% off your first order. Cozy Earth: This spring, give yourself the kind of comfort that lives with you all day — not just the moment you get home. Head to cozyearth.com and use my code DMA for an exclusive 20% off.