In Stage 4 English this term, students have been reading and working on the novel Lockie Leonard – Human Torpedo by Tim Winton.
This book is particularly suitable for those in their first two years of high college. Tim Winton deals with issues related to growth and development such as growing up, identity, young love and sexual awareness, family relationships and friendship. The novel is highly accessible to students at all levels. It is written in an amusing style which students find engaging and are able to relate to. However, as the book explores the life of a boy entering puberty there are some references to sexual development issues and sexual exploration.
All parents at some time or another will need to have “difficult” conversations with their children and literature is one way of introducing these topics in a less confronting manner.
It is important to remember that by the time teenagers reach 15 or 16 many will not want to discuss delicate issues with you. I have been having some interesting and enlightening discussions with parents and students about some of the issues dealt with in the book. Here is one response from parents after they read the book:
“ Thanks for suggesting we read this with the kids. I loved reading it with our child, even though at times I think we were both a little embarrassed, blushing and squirming. However, it was great to explain things to him and have that time to read with him, which I felt like I hadn’t done in ages.”
I have attached a link to more information and a video from the Australian Parenting website which may also help you.
http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/tricky_conversations.html
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