Most parents dread the talk. But what if the real mistake is waiting too long?

In this episode, Dr. Claudia Gray and Christy Herselman tackle one of the most anxiety-inducing topics in parenting: talking to children about sex and reproduction. Christy shares the story behind founding The Chat, a movement born from a birthday party conversation where a room full of mothers admitted they had no idea what to say or when to say it.

They unpack the phrase "eight is too late" and why the window between seven and nine is often the sweet spot—before embarrassment sets in and after their brains are ready. But the real question isn't how late is too late. It's how early is too early. And the answer might surprise you.

Starting with toddlers means beginning simply: naming body parts correctly, removing shame, and teaching that some parts are private without making them secret.

They also explore the powerful link between early, open conversation and safeguarding against abuse. Children who know the proper names for their body parts are more confident protecting themselves and better equipped to give testimony if the unthinkable happens. And when we teach body autonomy from a young age—allowing children to say no to hugs and kisses—we are laying the foundation for the most important concept of all: consent.

If you've been putting off the conversation, unsure how to start or worried about getting it wrong, this episode will leave you feeling equipped, not terrified.

Dr Claudia Gray:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dr_claudia_gray/

Dr Claudia Gray’s Real Parenting and Paediatrics, Quivertree Publications 2025

https://www.takealot.com/dr-gray-s-real-parenting-paediatrics/PLID98849917

Christy Herselman:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thechatdurban/

Books:

https://thechat.co.za/product-category/books/