Canadian sex educator Cory Silverberg describes their role as a trusted adult and highlights the importance of trusted adults in providing guidance and support to children. Silverberg emphasizes that adults are not perfect and have their own flaws, even though they are responsible for teaching children essential skills like financial literacy and maintaining friendships. Silverberg’s trilogy of books, including “What Makes A Baby,” “Sex is a Funny Word,” and “You Know, Sex,” has been commended for its unique approach to sex education, featuring friendly illustrations by artist Fiona Smyth.
The New York Times describes Silverberg’s books as having subtly transformed the genre of sex education. The books are designed for a wide range of ages, from young children to teenagers, and present information in a calm and neutral manner, allowing room for diverse experiences and uncertainties. For instance, the definition of sex in the book “You Know, Sex,” acknowledges that it is an activity people engage in to feel good in their bodies and can be done alone or with others.
Silverberg’s books are not just based on their own knowledge and expertise, but also on discussions with young people, incorporating their questions and experiences. They aim to represent various races, classes, sexualities, genders, abilities, and body shapes, providing a perspective that goes beyond that of a single adult. In fact, many parents may learn new things from reading these books alongside their children.
Silverberg acknowledges that many adults did not have the opportunity to learn and talk about sex and gender when they were young. They encourage adults to explore their own learning and be open to discussing the topics covered in the books. Silverberg’s goal is to provide realistic and inclusive information rather than idealistic concepts. The books feature relatable illustrations in bold and friendly colors, depicting four children from diverse backgrounds with different body shapes and skin tones.
As a non-binary individual who uses they/them pronouns, Silverberg’s books also reflect their personal experiences and understanding of gender. While some educators suggest avoiding discussions about boys and girls and focusing solely on gender, Silverberg disagrees, stating that understanding the world children live in is crucial. However, they also provide explanations in their second book, “Sex is a Funny Word,” that go beyond the binary understanding of gender.
Silverberg’s journey into sex education began when they worked at a sex-positive, female-friendly sex shop in Canada during their teenage years. They developed a particular interest in serving disabled customers, leading them to start a cooperative called Come As You Are, which offers workshops on pleasure and caters to the needs of disabled people. Their book for adults, “The Ultimate Guide to Sex and Disability,” further expanded their expertise in the field.
After being asked to write a book about how babies are made, Silverberg realized the need to include all types of families, including those formed through reproductive technologies. Their book, “What Makes a Baby,” initially faced rejection from publishers but was eventually self-published through a successful Kickstarter campaign. The book has since received numerous awards in the US.
Silverberg’s books address various topics that parents and children are concerned about, such as watching porn, navigating sexual safety, and understanding boundaries. The core themes of choice and consent are consistently emphasized throughout the trilogy. Silverberg believes that everyone deserves respect, trust, joy, justice, and the freedom to make choices.
In conclusion, Cory Silverberg’s books aim to create a world where diverse experiences and relationships are normalized. Their books provide practical and inclusive information about sex and relationships, catering to different age groups and offering a fresh perspective on sex education.
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