What Makes a Baby

My son is donor conceived, and I’m a solo parent by design, so how he was made is something we’ve talked about since he was tiny. (Although the conversation was rather one-sided for a number of years!)

When I discovered this book it quickly became a favourite as it’s so inclusive! The way it’s presented transcends gender and family set up, meaning you can use it to discuss any or all of the ways a baby can be made. Understanding how babies come into the world and grow helps children to realise the importance of their own bodies. 

I have read a lot of sex-ed books because I used to be an educator for Planned Parenthood and I think this book is 100% perfect. It contains delightfully colorful illustrations about how a baby is made without ever making anyone feel that they are different for the particular way they conceived a baby.

Cory writes, “Not all bodies have sperm in them.” as opposed to “most men have sperm and most women have eggs, but…” like every other sex-ed book I have ever read, making trans, intersex, and non-binary folks feel that they are an exception to some rule.… show more.

Cory Silverberg’s book for children ages 3+ answers the question, “Where do babies come from?” It covers conception, gestation, and birth in a way that is inclusive and celebratory within a variety of family structures. Any child’s birth story may be recounted and affirmed during this read. The story creates space for adults to share as many or as few of the details surrounding where children come from as they like. The vivid, colorful illustrations represent the vast array of identities children see in the world, and the central message is that all kids and families are unique and special.… show more.