To tell my 8yr old DS the facts of life?

[Olibats]

Had THE conversation with my 8yr old DS last week, in response to his specific questions (he already knew bits about pregnancy, eggs, how babies are born - all picked up along the way from various experiences, e.g. our hens laying eggs, watching natural history programmes, Aunty’s pregnancy etc).

Told him the mechanics of sex, used correct names for body parts & told him that he should not discuss the subject at school, as other children’s mums & dads will want to decide when to tell their children themselves.

I think he may have discussed it with one of his friends at school, as he told me his friends mum said he is not allowed to play with DS anymore. I texted mum (just a general ‘Hi how are you’) but no response. I suppose it could be something else entirely but boys seem on good terms & not aware of any issues through school.

Did I do the wrong thing? Should I have just fudged it? How old were your children when you told them this stuff?

@LanaKanesTerfyVagina this is us too,.. ds is 6 and knows it, has asked, been told the truth. Knows about periods also because he wouldn't leave the room when asked and so I had to explain I needed privacy to empty my cup, he's so fine with it all, never mentions it and has a good knowledge that won't come as a shock later on

Sounds fine to me. I’m really surprised people think it’s too young. DD1 knew at 4, I was pregnant when she was 3 so we explained most of it then, then when she was 4 she asked how the sperm got inside the uterus so we told her. She said ‘oh’ and carried on playing. Really no big deal. Now age 5 she understands what periods are and what puberty is. It’s just factual information, it’s not harmful.