Raising Feminist Boys: Dr. Bobbi Wegner Discusses Gender, Sex & Empathy

While many of us might cringe at the thought of talking to our children about sex, consent, and identity, these are topics we are wise to delve into. So, why is it so hard for parents to talk to kids about these important concepts? And, when it comes to our sons, where and how do we begin talking about gender, consent, sex, identity and empathy? And why are these conversations important to raising feminist boys? Is there any way to feel less uncomfortable when we talk about sex with our children? Is there a best way to have these conversations? Tune in to this week's show for answers to these questions and more!   Psychologist and author, Dr. Bobbi Wegner joins Marti & Erin for a compelling conversation on the importance of teaching our children -- and especially our sons -- about sex, consent, identity, gender, and empathy. In the age of #MeToo, it's especially important to know how to engage our sons in becoming empathetic men who contribute in positive ways to the lives of women and, of course, to their communities too. The author of Raising Feminist Boys: How to Talk with Your Child about Gender, Consent, and Empathy and a mom herself, Bobbi shares insights into how we might approach these subjects and whether we should approach them differently with our sons and daughters. Tune in as she demystifies these sometimes sticky subjects!   WHAT STEPS MIGHT YOU TAKE TO RAISE A FEMINIST BOY? How will you begin talking with your son about gender, consent, sex, identity and empathy? What can you do to model empathy for your sons and daughters? How might you overcome some of the awkwardness of these conversations, so you can support your children in becoming healthy adults?   WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EMPATHY, CONSENT, AND TALKING WITH CHILDREN ABOUT SEX? ❉ TEACHING CHILDREN ABOUT CONSENT: RIGHTS, RESPECT AND NO REGRETS. The concept of consent has been in the news a lot in recent years. But, understanding consent is important long before children reach adolescence.  Christy Keating, prosecutor turned parenting coach, joins Marti & Erin for an informative discussion on this important aspect of parenting.   ❉ TEACHING OUR CHILDREN ABOUT SEX, LOVE AND EQUALITY. Author Bonnie Rough discovered some surprising lessons about sex education while living in the Netherlands when her children were very young.  Ultimately, she learned this is about much more than sex; it is about healthy relationships, grounded in love, respect and equality. Check out this episode to learn more.   ❉ TALKING ABOUT THE BIRDS AND THE BEES TO KEEP KIDS SAFE IN AN ONLINE WORLD. Tune in to hear Amy Lang, sexual health educator, discuss how and when to start the birds and the bees conversation (it’s earlier than you might think), how to avoid TMI (too much information), and simple things that we can do to keep our children safe.