Sex education in Australia: it's always been a delicate subject matter, and one surrounded by controversy. The debates, disagreements, and discords arising from how we should educate young children about such complex and intricate matters have not faded away.

Instead, it has birthed issues like the recent one involving a book titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out that found itself under widespread scrutiny in BIG W and Target stores recently.

The book, jointly penned by Dr Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, was intended to serve as an inclusive, straightforward guide to sex education for kids as young as eight.

The controversy surrounding the book had tangible implications—BIG W was forced to make the book exclusively available online after store staff bore the brunt of the customers' ire. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.

A controversial sex education book has sparked outrage among parents for being too graphic. Credit: BIG W, Instagram/theprimod.

Chris 'Primod' Issa, a well-known podcast host, emerged as one of the prominent figures fueling public outrage. He strongly criticised the book, claiming that it was exposing young children to 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate' content, essentially 'grooming' them.

Issa openly expressed his concerns in a widely-shared video, using it as a platform to bring forth a discussion that had been simmering beneath the surface.

Despite facing a barrage of criticism, BIG W made efforts to mitigate the damage caused and refrained from completely removing the book from their catalogue.

In a statement, their spokesperson clarified, 'BIG W will continue to sell the book as part of our Parenting range.'

The book, which they defended as 'educational, age-appropriate and inclusive', will be sold exclusively online starting July 18th.

It remains unclear if Target will follow suit.

Rachael Wong, Chief Executive of Women's Forum Australia, was one of the vocal critics who expressed strong concerns about the book. She found its explicit depiction of sex and its potential availability to young children highly objectionable.

She was also disturbed by the authors' seemingly casual attitude towards the legal age of consent.

Ms Wong accused the authors of mentioning the legal age merely as a way to avoid 'getting into trouble', as she believed that the book essentially served as a 'sex manual' for children.

'It's just so, so disturbing. My friend's son, who is 11 years old, thinks that kissing is gross, and most children his age feel similarly,' she added.

'They have this natural awkwardness around sexual things, a natural aversion, which is a protective mechanism and material like this is an attempt to destroy that.'

Despite receiving negative feedback, numerous parentson social media have expressed their enthusiasm for the book and their intention to introduce it to their children.

Even educators have praised the book's 'talk-early, talk-often' approach to sex education, which starkly contrasts its critics' opinions.

Many also endorsed the authors' efforts to de-stigmatise conversations around sexuality and appreciated the attempt to cultivate an open dialogue. So while this book might not replace the 'birds and bees talk', it certainly gives parents another option.

Key Takeaways

• BIG W stores across the country have removed a controversial sex education book from their physical shelves and moved it to online sales only, following intense criticism and abuse directed at staff.
• The book, titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out, intends to educate children as young as eight about sex but has attracted nationwide attention for its discussion of mature themes.
• Critics have called the book 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate'. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.
• Despite the negative feedback, many parents have welcomed the book and expressed their interest in introducing it to their children. They believe in early and open discussions about sex with their children.

We value your opinions on this matter, members. Do you believe this book goes too far in discussing adult topics with young children, or is it simply reflecting a more accepting approach towards sex and relationships? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!

 

[mylittletibbies]

Do you not know the difference between PORN and Sex Education . I hope and pray you never gave your child PLAYBOY and said 'well this is how it is '

I do believe there are many people who do not know how disgusting real PORN
actually is, otherwise they would not be making these comments.
I have read this book, it is appropriate education ,IMO, and nowhere near porn.

 

[goodmorning]

did we all for get that it wasn't that long ago that a book came out called the little red book and it was a straight shooting book about sex in plane english and people were up in arms then about it stop being such a snob and talk about it it is part of life and growing up

 

[Suzanne rose]

Sex is nothing to be ashamed of, and I would like to think that we have advanced in questions about it.

And education needs to start at home. Like I said earlier it needs to be taught in stages and at different ages .
Including pre teenager the consequences of pregnancy

 

[NotNats]

Sex education in Australia: it's always been a delicate subject matter, and one surrounded by controversy. The debates, disagreements, and discords arising from how we should educate young children about such complex and intricate matters have not faded away.

Instead, it has birthed issues like the recent one involving a book titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out that found itself under widespread scrutiny in BIG W and Target stores recently.

The book, jointly penned by Dr Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, was intended to serve as an inclusive, straightforward guide to sex education for kids as young as eight.

The controversy surrounding the book had tangible implications—BIG W was forced to make the book exclusively available online after store staff bore the brunt of the customers' ire. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.

View attachment 25505

A controversial sex education book has sparked outrage among parents for being too graphic. Credit: BIG W, Instagram/theprimod.

Chris 'Primod' Issa, a well-known podcast host, emerged as one of the prominent figures fueling public outrage. He strongly criticised the book, claiming that it was exposing young children to 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate' content, essentially 'grooming' them.

Issa openly expressed his concerns in a widely-shared video, using it as a platform to bring forth a discussion that had been simmering beneath the surface.

Despite facing a barrage of criticism, BIG W made efforts to mitigate the damage caused and refrained from completely removing the book from their catalogue.

In a statement, their spokesperson clarified, 'BIG W will continue to sell the book as part of our Parenting range.'

The book, which they defended as 'educational, age-appropriate and inclusive', will be sold exclusively online starting July 18th.

It remains unclear if Target will follow suit.

Rachael Wong, Chief Executive of Women's Forum Australia, was one of the vocal critics who expressed strong concerns about the book. She found its explicit depiction of sex and its potential availability to young children highly objectionable.

She was also disturbed by the authors' seemingly casual attitude towards the legal age of consent.

Ms Wong accused the authors of mentioning the legal age merely as a way to avoid 'getting into trouble', as she believed that the book essentially served as a 'sex manual' for children.

'It's just so, so disturbing. My friend's son, who is 11 years old, thinks that kissing is gross, and most children his age feel similarly,' she added.

'They have this natural awkwardness around sexual things, a natural aversion, which is a protective mechanism and material like this is an attempt to destroy that.'

Despite receiving negative feedback, numerous parentson social media have expressed their enthusiasm for the book and their intention to introduce it to their children.

Even educators have praised the book's 'talk-early, talk-often' approach to sex education, which starkly contrasts its critics' opinions.

Many also endorsed the authors' efforts to de-stigmatise conversations around sexuality and appreciated the attempt to cultivate an open dialogue. So while this book might not replace the 'birds and bees talk', it certainly gives parents another option.

Key Takeaways

• BIG W stores across the country have removed a controversial sex education book from their physical shelves and moved it to online sales only, following intense criticism and abuse directed at staff.
• The book, titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out, intends to educate children as young as eight about sex but has attracted nationwide attention for its discussion of mature themes.
• Critics have called the book 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate'. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.
• Despite the negative feedback, many parents have welcomed the book and expressed their interest in introducing it to their children. They believe in early and open discussions about sex with their children.

We value your opinions on this matter, members. Do you believe this book goes too far in discussing adult topics with young children, or is it simply reflecting a more accepting approach towards sex and relationships? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!

Employees/staff should NEVER be abused because it's not them that ordered the book. If you hate something that's in the store politely let the front desk know or even just ring Head Office and complain. Remember abusing the staff won't get anything done but you may end up with a criminal recorded.

 

[Kim.Pedersen]

Sex education in Australia: it's always been a delicate subject matter, and one surrounded by controversy. The debates, disagreements, and discords arising from how we should educate young children about such complex and intricate matters have not faded away.

Instead, it has birthed issues like the recent one involving a book titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out that found itself under widespread scrutiny in BIG W and Target stores recently.

The book, jointly penned by Dr Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, was intended to serve as an inclusive, straightforward guide to sex education for kids as young as eight.

The controversy surrounding the book had tangible implications—BIG W was forced to make the book exclusively available online after store staff bore the brunt of the customers' ire. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.

View attachment 25505

A controversial sex education book has sparked outrage among parents for being too graphic. Credit: BIG W, Instagram/theprimod.

Chris 'Primod' Issa, a well-known podcast host, emerged as one of the prominent figures fueling public outrage. He strongly criticised the book, claiming that it was exposing young children to 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate' content, essentially 'grooming' them.

Issa openly expressed his concerns in a widely-shared video, using it as a platform to bring forth a discussion that had been simmering beneath the surface.

Despite facing a barrage of criticism, BIG W made efforts to mitigate the damage caused and refrained from completely removing the book from their catalogue.

In a statement, their spokesperson clarified, 'BIG W will continue to sell the book as part of our Parenting range.'

The book, which they defended as 'educational, age-appropriate and inclusive', will be sold exclusively online starting July 18th.

It remains unclear if Target will follow suit.

Rachael Wong, Chief Executive of Women's Forum Australia, was one of the vocal critics who expressed strong concerns about the book. She found its explicit depiction of sex and its potential availability to young children highly objectionable.

She was also disturbed by the authors' seemingly casual attitude towards the legal age of consent.

Ms Wong accused the authors of mentioning the legal age merely as a way to avoid 'getting into trouble', as she believed that the book essentially served as a 'sex manual' for children.

'It's just so, so disturbing. My friend's son, who is 11 years old, thinks that kissing is gross, and most children his age feel similarly,' she added.

'They have this natural awkwardness around sexual things, a natural aversion, which is a protective mechanism and material like this is an attempt to destroy that.'

Despite receiving negative feedback, numerous parentson social media have expressed their enthusiasm for the book and their intention to introduce it to their children.

Even educators have praised the book's 'talk-early, talk-often' approach to sex education, which starkly contrasts its critics' opinions.

Many also endorsed the authors' efforts to de-stigmatise conversations around sexuality and appreciated the attempt to cultivate an open dialogue. So while this book might not replace the 'birds and bees talk', it certainly gives parents another option.

Key Takeaways

• BIG W stores across the country have removed a controversial sex education book from their physical shelves and moved it to online sales only, following intense criticism and abuse directed at staff.
• The book, titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out, intends to educate children as young as eight about sex but has attracted nationwide attention for its discussion of mature themes.
• Critics have called the book 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate'. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.
• Despite the negative feedback, many parents have welcomed the book and expressed their interest in introducing it to their children. They believe in early and open discussions about sex with their children.

We value your opinions on this matter, members. Do you believe this book goes too far in discussing adult topics with young children, or is it simply reflecting a more accepting approach towards sex and relationships? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!

Leave our children alone. It used to be that parents truthfully answered their children's questions with an age appropriate answer. We used correct names for our bodies and children understood the truth in a way they could deal with. By the time my children were teenagers they knew everything they needed to make informed choices when they were needed to. My children as adults can and do talk to me about anything and everything. 8 years old is far too young for strangers teaching them about sex. All this will do is stop kids talking to their parents putting even bigger space between over controlled parenting. Let parents raise their children.

 

[fourwb]

Sex education in Australia: it's always been a delicate subject matter, and one surrounded by controversy. The debates, disagreements, and discords arising from how we should educate young children about such complex and intricate matters have not faded away.

Instead, it has birthed issues like the recent one involving a book titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out that found itself under widespread scrutiny in BIG W and Target stores recently.

The book, jointly penned by Dr Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, was intended to serve as an inclusive, straightforward guide to sex education for kids as young as eight.

The controversy surrounding the book had tangible implications—BIG W was forced to make the book exclusively available online after store staff bore the brunt of the customers' ire. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.

View attachment 25505

A controversial sex education book has sparked outrage among parents for being too graphic. Credit: BIG W, Instagram/theprimod.

Chris 'Primod' Issa, a well-known podcast host, emerged as one of the prominent figures fueling public outrage. He strongly criticised the book, claiming that it was exposing young children to 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate' content, essentially 'grooming' them.

Issa openly expressed his concerns in a widely-shared video, using it as a platform to bring forth a discussion that had been simmering beneath the surface.

Despite facing a barrage of criticism, BIG W made efforts to mitigate the damage caused and refrained from completely removing the book from their catalogue.

In a statement, their spokesperson clarified, 'BIG W will continue to sell the book as part of our Parenting range.'

The book, which they defended as 'educational, age-appropriate and inclusive', will be sold exclusively online starting July 18th.

It remains unclear if Target will follow suit.

Rachael Wong, Chief Executive of Women's Forum Australia, was one of the vocal critics who expressed strong concerns about the book. She found its explicit depiction of sex and its potential availability to young children highly objectionable.

She was also disturbed by the authors' seemingly casual attitude towards the legal age of consent.

Ms Wong accused the authors of mentioning the legal age merely as a way to avoid 'getting into trouble', as she believed that the book essentially served as a 'sex manual' for children.

'It's just so, so disturbing. My friend's son, who is 11 years old, thinks that kissing is gross, and most children his age feel similarly,' she added.

'They have this natural awkwardness around sexual things, a natural aversion, which is a protective mechanism and material like this is an attempt to destroy that.'

Despite receiving negative feedback, numerous parentson social media have expressed their enthusiasm for the book and their intention to introduce it to their children.

Even educators have praised the book's 'talk-early, talk-often' approach to sex education, which starkly contrasts its critics' opinions.

Many also endorsed the authors' efforts to de-stigmatise conversations around sexuality and appreciated the attempt to cultivate an open dialogue. So while this book might not replace the 'birds and bees talk', it certainly gives parents another option.

Key Takeaways

• BIG W stores across the country have removed a controversial sex education book from their physical shelves and moved it to online sales only, following intense criticism and abuse directed at staff.
• The book, titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out, intends to educate children as young as eight about sex but has attracted nationwide attention for its discussion of mature themes.
• Critics have called the book 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate'. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.
• Despite the negative feedback, many parents have welcomed the book and expressed their interest in introducing it to their children. They believe in early and open discussions about sex with their children.

We value your opinions on this matter, members. Do you believe this book goes too far in discussing adult topics with young children, or is it simply reflecting a more accepting approach towards sex and relationships? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!

It is totally inappropriate for BIG W to sell this book even on line. They also make inappropriate political comments about aborigines. I will not shop there until they have a cleanout of management and appoint some responsible people. The current management team should be dismissed. I also urge everyone not to shop with this irresponsible retailer.

 

[Trudylee]

Yumi Stymes Book is being pushed even by Albinese on Twitter and other Marxist Leftirs to promote the Grooming Sexualization of the Young, its happening Globally by Marxist, Luciferian ,Elite, Pedophilic Networks, We must protect the Children at all costs

 

[chrissie2700]

Regardless of judgement and attitude to the book/s there is an can NEVER be ANY excuse for supposed “adults” abusing staff. Hopefully those immature adults seek help for their abusive traits before even thinking about breeding and influencing their innocent young ?

my thoughts exactly

 

[Observer]

This is such a controversial topic. Every one has their own thoughts and ideas about it.
As for my opinion, not gonna make one LOL
I'll sit on the fence with this one.

 

[Miss Chris]

I just think it sad that grown up adults are behaving like children….I mean temper tantrums and verbal abuse, it’s ridiculous………There is a very clear choice here……EITHER BUY IT OR NOT…….No need to argue about what is after all a personal choice

 

[LeslieD]

Sex education in Australia: it's always been a delicate subject matter, and one surrounded by controversy. The debates, disagreements, and discords arising from how we should educate young children about such complex and intricate matters have not faded away.

Instead, it has birthed issues like the recent one involving a book titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out that found itself under widespread scrutiny in BIG W and Target stores recently.

The book, jointly penned by Dr Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, was intended to serve as an inclusive, straightforward guide to sex education for kids as young as eight.

The controversy surrounding the book had tangible implications—BIG W was forced to make the book exclusively available online after store staff bore the brunt of the customers' ire. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.

View attachment 25505

A controversial sex education book has sparked outrage among parents for being too graphic. Credit: BIG W, Instagram/theprimod.

Chris 'Primod' Issa, a well-known podcast host, emerged as one of the prominent figures fueling public outrage. He strongly criticised the book, claiming that it was exposing young children to 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate' content, essentially 'grooming' them.

Issa openly expressed his concerns in a widely-shared video, using it as a platform to bring forth a discussion that had been simmering beneath the surface.

Despite facing a barrage of criticism, BIG W made efforts to mitigate the damage caused and refrained from completely removing the book from their catalogue.

In a statement, their spokesperson clarified, 'BIG W will continue to sell the book as part of our Parenting range.'

The book, which they defended as 'educational, age-appropriate and inclusive', will be sold exclusively online starting July 18th.

It remains unclear if Target will follow suit.

Rachael Wong, Chief Executive of Women's Forum Australia, was one of the vocal critics who expressed strong concerns about the book. She found its explicit depiction of sex and its potential availability to young children highly objectionable.

She was also disturbed by the authors' seemingly casual attitude towards the legal age of consent.

Ms Wong accused the authors of mentioning the legal age merely as a way to avoid 'getting into trouble', as she believed that the book essentially served as a 'sex manual' for children.

'It's just so, so disturbing. My friend's son, who is 11 years old, thinks that kissing is gross, and most children his age feel similarly,' she added.

'They have this natural awkwardness around sexual things, a natural aversion, which is a protective mechanism and material like this is an attempt to destroy that.'

Despite receiving negative feedback, numerous parentson social media have expressed their enthusiasm for the book and their intention to introduce it to their children.

Even educators have praised the book's 'talk-early, talk-often' approach to sex education, which starkly contrasts its critics' opinions.

Many also endorsed the authors' efforts to de-stigmatise conversations around sexuality and appreciated the attempt to cultivate an open dialogue. So while this book might not replace the 'birds and bees talk', it certainly gives parents another option.

Key Takeaways

• BIG W stores across the country have removed a controversial sex education book from their physical shelves and moved it to online sales only, following intense criticism and abuse directed at staff.
• The book, titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out, intends to educate children as young as eight about sex but has attracted nationwide attention for its discussion of mature themes.
• Critics have called the book 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate'. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.
• Despite the negative feedback, many parents have welcomed the book and expressed their interest in introducing it to their children. They believe in early and open discussions about sex with their children.

We value your opinions on this matter, members. Do you believe this book goes too far in discussing adult topics with young children, or is it simply reflecting a more accepting approach towards sex and relationships? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!

This is as bad as child pornography. To have this book on the shelf in front of kids is disgusting. My grandkids if they saw it would possibly read it in store m, just because of the word sex on the cover. Hopefully their parents would be with them and put it back on the shelf. Why not bring back the Dr James Wright book Everything a growing child should know. My kids had that and it was great. Plus I also made it very clear that no one was ever allowed to touch their bodies apart from themselves, or a Dr in the presence of a parent. Grrrr

 

[Shane/#]

Sex education in Australia: it's always been a delicate subject matter, and one surrounded by controversy. The debates, disagreements, and discords arising from how we should educate young children about such complex and intricate matters have not faded away.

Instead, it has birthed issues like the recent one involving a book titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out that found itself under widespread scrutiny in BIG W and Target stores recently.

The book, jointly penned by Dr Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, was intended to serve as an inclusive, straightforward guide to sex education for kids as young as eight.

The controversy surrounding the book had tangible implications—BIG W was forced to make the book exclusively available online after store staff bore the brunt of the customers' ire. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.

View attachment 25505

A controversial sex education book has sparked outrage among parents for being too graphic. Credit: BIG W, Instagram/theprimod.

Chris 'Primod' Issa, a well-known podcast host, emerged as one of the prominent figures fueling public outrage. He strongly criticised the book, claiming that it was exposing young children to 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate' content, essentially 'grooming' them.

Issa openly expressed his concerns in a widely-shared video, using it as a platform to bring forth a discussion that had been simmering beneath the surface.

Despite facing a barrage of criticism, BIG W made efforts to mitigate the damage caused and refrained from completely removing the book from their catalogue.

In a statement, their spokesperson clarified, 'BIG W will continue to sell the book as part of our Parenting range.'

The book, which they defended as 'educational, age-appropriate and inclusive', will be sold exclusively online starting July 18th.

It remains unclear if Target will follow suit.

Rachael Wong, Chief Executive of Women's Forum Australia, was one of the vocal critics who expressed strong concerns about the book. She found its explicit depiction of sex and its potential availability to young children highly objectionable.

She was also disturbed by the authors' seemingly casual attitude towards the legal age of consent.

Ms Wong accused the authors of mentioning the legal age merely as a way to avoid 'getting into trouble', as she believed that the book essentially served as a 'sex manual' for children.

'It's just so, so disturbing. My friend's son, who is 11 years old, thinks that kissing is gross, and most children his age feel similarly,' she added.

'They have this natural awkwardness around sexual things, a natural aversion, which is a protective mechanism and material like this is an attempt to destroy that.'

Despite receiving negative feedback, numerous parentson social media have expressed their enthusiasm for the book and their intention to introduce it to their children.

Even educators have praised the book's 'talk-early, talk-often' approach to sex education, which starkly contrasts its critics' opinions.

Many also endorsed the authors' efforts to de-stigmatise conversations around sexuality and appreciated the attempt to cultivate an open dialogue. So while this book might not replace the 'birds and bees talk', it certainly gives parents another option.

Key Takeaways

• BIG W stores across the country have removed a controversial sex education book from their physical shelves and moved it to online sales only, following intense criticism and abuse directed at staff.
• The book, titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out, intends to educate children as young as eight about sex but has attracted nationwide attention for its discussion of mature themes.
• Critics have called the book 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate'. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.
• Despite the negative feedback, many parents have welcomed the book and expressed their interest in introducing it to their children. They believe in early and open discussions about sex with their children.

We value your opinions on this matter, members. Do you believe this book goes too far in discussing adult topics with young children, or is it simply reflecting a more accepting approach towards sex and relationships? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!

Stop whinging about a bloody book more sex and porn on the internet instead of shoving a tablet in the kid's face get off your arses and teach your children about sex education the do's and don'ts of safe sex it's not a teacher's problem it your responsibility

 

[joshram]

I beg to differ, it is usually those children who are uneducated about sex who are the ones who end up pregnant.
There is no need for unwanted pregnancies in this day and age.
Throughout history children/teenagers have experimented in sex, you can't stop it by putting your head in the sand.
If you believe that waiting until the age of 15 is appropriate, you are living in the dark ages.

I agree. It isn't knowledge that causes experimentation, its ignorance and curiosity. However, I have not seen the book so cannot comment on it specifically

 

[Libnotes]

This book and others by these authors, "Welcome to your period" and "Welcome to consent" are available in libraries.

 

[Tony@51]

Sex education in Australia: it's always been a delicate subject matter, and one surrounded by controversy. The debates, disagreements, and discords arising from how we should educate young children about such complex and intricate matters have not faded away.

Instead, it has birthed issues like the recent one involving a book titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out that found itself under widespread scrutiny in BIG W and Target stores recently.

The book, jointly penned by Dr Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, was intended to serve as an inclusive, straightforward guide to sex education for kids as young as eight.

The controversy surrounding the book had tangible implications—BIG W was forced to make the book exclusively available online after store staff bore the brunt of the customers' ire. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.

View attachment 25505

A controversial sex education book has sparked outrage among parents for being too graphic. Credit: BIG W, Instagram/theprimod.

Chris 'Primod' Issa, a well-known podcast host, emerged as one of the prominent figures fueling public outrage. He strongly criticised the book, claiming that it was exposing young children to 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate' content, essentially 'grooming' them.

Issa openly expressed his concerns in a widely-shared video, using it as a platform to bring forth a discussion that had been simmering beneath the surface.

Despite facing a barrage of criticism, BIG W made efforts to mitigate the damage caused and refrained from completely removing the book from their catalogue.

In a statement, their spokesperson clarified, 'BIG W will continue to sell the book as part of our Parenting range.'

The book, which they defended as 'educational, age-appropriate and inclusive', will be sold exclusively online starting July 18th.

It remains unclear if Target will follow suit.

Rachael Wong, Chief Executive of Women's Forum Australia, was one of the vocal critics who expressed strong concerns about the book. She found its explicit depiction of sex and its potential availability to young children highly objectionable.

She was also disturbed by the authors' seemingly casual attitude towards the legal age of consent.

Ms Wong accused the authors of mentioning the legal age merely as a way to avoid 'getting into trouble', as she believed that the book essentially served as a 'sex manual' for children.

'It's just so, so disturbing. My friend's son, who is 11 years old, thinks that kissing is gross, and most children his age feel similarly,' she added.

'They have this natural awkwardness around sexual things, a natural aversion, which is a protective mechanism and material like this is an attempt to destroy that.'

Despite receiving negative feedback, numerous parentson social media have expressed their enthusiasm for the book and their intention to introduce it to their children.

Even educators have praised the book's 'talk-early, talk-often' approach to sex education, which starkly contrasts its critics' opinions.

Many also endorsed the authors' efforts to de-stigmatise conversations around sexuality and appreciated the attempt to cultivate an open dialogue. So while this book might not replace the 'birds and bees talk', it certainly gives parents another option.

Key Takeaways

• BIG W stores across the country have removed a controversial sex education book from their physical shelves and moved it to online sales only, following intense criticism and abuse directed at staff.
• The book, titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out, intends to educate children as young as eight about sex but has attracted nationwide attention for its discussion of mature themes.
• Critics have called the book 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate'. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.
• Despite the negative feedback, many parents have welcomed the book and expressed their interest in introducing it to their children. They believe in early and open discussions about sex with their children.

We value your opinions on this matter, members. Do you believe this book goes too far in discussing adult topics with young children, or is it simply reflecting a more accepting approach towards sex and relationships? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!

 

[Tony@51]

grooming our children for the rainbow people not rite.

 

[Tygie]

Sex education in Australia: it's always been a delicate subject matter, and one surrounded by controversy. The debates, disagreements, and discords arising from how we should educate young children about such complex and intricate matters have not faded away.

Instead, it has birthed issues like the recent one involving a book titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out that found itself under widespread scrutiny in BIG W and Target stores recently.

The book, jointly penned by Dr Melissa Kang and Yumi Stynes, was intended to serve as an inclusive, straightforward guide to sex education for kids as young as eight.

The controversy surrounding the book had tangible implications—BIG W was forced to make the book exclusively available online after store staff bore the brunt of the customers' ire. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.

View attachment 25505

A controversial sex education book has sparked outrage among parents for being too graphic. Credit: BIG W, Instagram/theprimod.

Chris 'Primod' Issa, a well-known podcast host, emerged as one of the prominent figures fueling public outrage. He strongly criticised the book, claiming that it was exposing young children to 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate' content, essentially 'grooming' them.

Issa openly expressed his concerns in a widely-shared video, using it as a platform to bring forth a discussion that had been simmering beneath the surface.

Despite facing a barrage of criticism, BIG W made efforts to mitigate the damage caused and refrained from completely removing the book from their catalogue.

In a statement, their spokesperson clarified, 'BIG W will continue to sell the book as part of our Parenting range.'

The book, which they defended as 'educational, age-appropriate and inclusive', will be sold exclusively online starting July 18th.

It remains unclear if Target will follow suit.

Rachael Wong, Chief Executive of Women's Forum Australia, was one of the vocal critics who expressed strong concerns about the book. She found its explicit depiction of sex and its potential availability to young children highly objectionable.

She was also disturbed by the authors' seemingly casual attitude towards the legal age of consent.

Ms Wong accused the authors of mentioning the legal age merely as a way to avoid 'getting into trouble', as she believed that the book essentially served as a 'sex manual' for children.

'It's just so, so disturbing. My friend's son, who is 11 years old, thinks that kissing is gross, and most children his age feel similarly,' she added.

'They have this natural awkwardness around sexual things, a natural aversion, which is a protective mechanism and material like this is an attempt to destroy that.'

Despite receiving negative feedback, numerous parentson social media have expressed their enthusiasm for the book and their intention to introduce it to their children.

Even educators have praised the book's 'talk-early, talk-often' approach to sex education, which starkly contrasts its critics' opinions.

Many also endorsed the authors' efforts to de-stigmatise conversations around sexuality and appreciated the attempt to cultivate an open dialogue. So while this book might not replace the 'birds and bees talk', it certainly gives parents another option.

Key Takeaways

• BIG W stores across the country have removed a controversial sex education book from their physical shelves and moved it to online sales only, following intense criticism and abuse directed at staff.
• The book, titled Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions guide to sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out, intends to educate children as young as eight about sex but has attracted nationwide attention for its discussion of mature themes.
• Critics have called the book 'sexually explicit' and 'highly inappropriate'. Some have also threatened to boycott the department stores until the book is removed from sale.
• Despite the negative feedback, many parents have welcomed the book and expressed their interest in introducing it to their children. They believe in early and open discussions about sex with their children.

We value your opinions on this matter, members. Do you believe this book goes too far in discussing adult topics with young children, or is it simply reflecting a more accepting approach towards sex and relationships? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!

I got one of these books - just because i wanted to see what the fuss was about. I had to order it online by click and collect, when i picked it up the man said there had been people abusing staff over it and they were sick of it.

I looked at it. I DON'T SEE THE FUSS - IT'S A BOOK ABOUT SEX IN A LEVEL OF LANGUAGE THAT A CHILD UNDERSTANDS. IF YOU DON'T WANT KIDS TO SEE IT THEN DON'T BUY IT!!!

Frankly it is nothing that my daughter didn't learn in sex ed in grade 8 at high school and that anyone these days can't just google up.

As for people abusing the stores staff - GROW THE F#%K UP - They are only people working in a shop they didn't write it or publish it. They are just doing their job in a store. people should have some respect and aim their anger at something other than the store staff.

 

[mylittletibbies]

This is as bad as child pornography. To have this book on the shelf in front of kids is disgusting. My grandkids if they saw it would possibly read it in store m, just because of the word sex on the cover. Hopefully their parents would be with them and put it back on the shelf. Why not bring back the Dr James Wright book Everything a growing child should know. My kids had that and it was great. Plus I also made it very clear that no one was ever allowed to touch their bodies apart from themselves, or a Dr in the presence of a parent. Grrrr

As bad as porn???? Get real

 

[KSS]

Why is it that woolworths always appear to be on the front foot when it comes to political issues, someone in top management is pushing this woke rubbish, why would you want BIG W selling this it is PORN and it should be banned by the authorities, goodbye BIG W and WOOLWORTHS you will not be seeing my family in your stores anymore, look what happended to BUD LITE

Funny you ask that question. When I was in Woolworth the other day, there was a five-minute-long 'party political broadcast' about The referendum and that Woolworth was voting yes (a bit stupid that one because the organisation does not get a vote, individual people do) then it went on about LGBTIQ+ diversity and their staffing arrangements, their internal policies around both issues, gender equality, inclusion and back to the YES vote. Frankly, I do not wish to be subjected to this propaganda and preached at as I do my weekly shop. In my view, they are not on the front foot at all but attempting to politicise and influence MY decisions on such things. Their job is to sell groceries, not be a mouthpiece for every minority group the woke decide are worthy.

 

[KSS]

I got one of these books - just because i wanted to see what the fuss was about. I had to order it online by click and collect, when i picked it up the man said there had been people abusing staff over it and they were sick of it.

I looked at it. I DON'T SEE THE FUSS - IT'S A BOOK ABOUT SEX IN A LEVEL OF LANGUAGE THAT A CHILD UNDERSTANDS. IF YOU DON'T WANT KIDS TO SEE IT THEN DON'T BUY IT!!!

Frankly it is nothing that my daughter didn't learn in sex ed in grade 8 at high school and that anyone these days can't just google up.

As for people abusing the stores staff - GROW THE F#%K UP - They are only people working in a shop they didn't write it or publish it. They are just doing their job in a store. people should have some respect and aim their anger at something other than the store staff.

I don't think the issue is about the book as a tool for teenagers in high school. Ms Stymes has said it should be used with primary school children as young as 8 or 9. THAT is the issue along with the gender-bending affirmations going on in primary schools (and reflected in the book).