Chapter 30
The pretty fable that the storks or angels fetch the babies cannot long satisfy the growing mind. Children wish to understand, yet it is easy for them to see that parents do not wish to explain the mystery. Curiosity is aroused, for the desire to know is natural and quite legitimate, and the sad thing is that the explanation is generally left to companions and servants who are devoid of delicacy or modesty.
Now there is no reason for this reticence and false shame. The whole process of reproduction is a wonderful example of the wisdom and goodness of the Creator, and if properly explained the child will see that it is so.
Again, there are physical epochs through which all young people must pass. These are quite natural, but unless explained and the children are prepared to expect them, may cause great alarm. In their distress they are very likely to enquire from impure companions, or get some of the pernicious literature which is issued in quantity by the quacks who prey upon the fears of the young, and upon their dislike to speak to their parents on a subject which the latter have taught them by silence is one which is unmentionable.
It may be asked when this information should be given. No rule will fit all cases, as children vary so much in their development. We would urge that it should be given _early_, as Miss Willard well says:--"See that the pure thought gets in first." Besides, children grow up much faster than their parents are apt to realize.
The evils of self-pollution are so great, and the cure so difficult, that no risk should be run of such ever being commenced through ignorance. In fact this is the main reason for our undertaking the separate works on this subject. It is so saddening to reflect that a career of vice is often entered upon through the child's ignorance of the laws of its own body, that the natural reticence in speaking of the subject should not be allowed to prevent the information being given.
_KIRK SEX SERIES._
"Instruct thy son and labor for him lest his lewd behaviour be an offence unto thee."--_Ecclesiasticus 30, 13._
A Talk with Boys about Themselves
BY
EDWARD BRUCE KIRK, Editor of "Papers on Health."
Introduction by Canon Hon. ED. LYTTELTON, Headmaster of Eton College.
Every father should see that his son is not driven for information on the origin of life to impure companions. This book makes the imparting of this knowledge easy. Confidence will beget manliness.
_SUBJECTS TREATED:_
Origin of Life; Puberty, its meaning and responsibilities; Evils of Self Pollution; Love and Marriage; Reproduction; Perfect Manhood; Health and Strength.
Price 2/= net, Post Free, 2/3.
Publishers:
SIMPKIN, MARSHALL, HAMILTON, KENT & Co., London. T. D. MORISON, Glasgow. THE FOWLER & WELLS CO., New York.
_KIRK SEX SERIES._
A Talk with Girls about Themselves
By EDWARD B. KIRK, Editor of "Papers on Health."
Introduction by LADY PAGET.
This book is intended to be given by the parent to the daughter. Besides much wise counsel about health and self-development, it gives in delicate language, a clear answer to the many questions which must force themselves upon the growing girl.
_SUBJECTS TREATED:_
Hints on Health; Diet; Exercise; Pure Air; Evils of Tight Lacing, etc.; Health and Beauty, their inseparability; Courtship; Marriage; True Womanhood; What Men Admire; Vice, its terrible punishment; Reproduction; Pregnancy; Reading and Education.
Price 2/= net, Post Free, 2/3.
* * * * *
The Wonder of Life
A Talk with Children about Sex,
By MARY TUDOR POLE, Author of "Fairies."
Introduction by LADY ISABEL MARGESSON.
This book is intended for young children of both sexes. It shows in simple language the analogy between the reproductive processes in plants and human beings.
Price 1/= net, Post Free, 1/3.
Publishers:
SIMPKIN, MARSHALL, HAMILTON, KENT & Co., London. Thos. D. MORISON, Glasgow. THE FOWLER & WELLS CO., New York.