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Union Square & Co., LLC, is a subsidiary of Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.
© 2024 Rachel Coler Mulholland
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (including electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without prior written permission from the publisher.
This publication is intended for informational purposes only. The publisher does not claim that this publication shall provide or guarantee any benefits, healing, cure, or any results in any respect. This publication is not intended to provide or replace medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis or be a substitute to consulting with a physician or other licensed medical or health-care providers. The publisher and author shall not be liable or responsible for any use or application of any content contained in this publication or any adverse effects, consequence, loss, or damage of any type resulting or arising from, directly or indirectly, the use or application of any content contained in this publication.
The author and editor have made every effort to reproduce the substance of the conversations relied on in this book but some have been edited and condensed for clarity and space. Names and identifying details have been changed at the individuals’ request and/or to preserve the author’s obligation to uphold patient confidentiality.
ISBN 978-1-4549-5370-8
ISBN 978-1-4549-5371-5 (e-book)
For information about custom editions, special sales, and premium purchases, please contact specialsales@unionsquareandco.com.
Interior design: Christine A. Heun
Cover design: Jennifer Heuer
Cover Images: Getty Images: Antagain/E+ (Bee); Nicholas Brink/500px (Elephant); Shutterstock.com: Svetlana Foote (Bird)
For J.W.A.V.—I love you too much
Contents
Cover
Title Page
Copyright
Dedication
Introduction: What to Expect in This Book
PART 1: Foundations
CHAPTER 1: Unconditional Positive Regard
CHAPTER 2: Curiosity
CHAPTER 3: Consent
CHAPTER 4: Consent for Knowledge
PART 2: Mechanics (Birth to Age 10)
CHAPTER 5: Self-Stimulation and Exploration
CHAPTER 6: Periods, Period
CHAPTER 7: Pen15 Club
CHAPTER 8: Where Do Babies Come From?!
PART 3: Specifics
CHAPTER 9: The Feels
CHAPTER 10: Consent NOW
CHAPTER 11: The Five Pillars of Safe Sex
CHAPTER 12: The Number 12 Rule (Dating)
CHAPTER 13: “The Internet Is for Porn”—Avenue Q
CHAPTER 14: Pride
CHAPTER 15: Remember, Remember
Recommended Resources and Further Reading
Notes
Acknowledgments
Introduction: What to Expect in This Book
“Sooooo here’s a story from A to Z, you wanna get with me …”
Man, it’s kinda hot.
These shorts are itchy.
Wonder what Dad wants …
I wonder if I can go to the pool this afternoon …
The book addresses the often-unspoken "elephant in the room" in conversations about sex and intimacy, offering a comprehensive guide that combines practical advice with thoughtful reflections. Coler-Mulholland’s work aims to break down barriers and foster open, honest discussions, providing readers with valuable knowledge and perspectives on navigating these important aspects of life. The book is known for its approachable style and its commitment to demystifying and normalizing essential conversations about sex and relationships.
