On a quest to provide real answers to the tough questions young people are asking today, Umdloti’s Christy Herselman just launched her third book, a puberty survival guide titled What Just Happened?
Celebrated speaker, author and founder of The Chat, a platform for tough conversations, Herselman has through extended programmes with high school pupils picked up on the key questions they are asking.
Herselman said the motivation behind the book was to give advice to parents and teenagers on how to thrive and not just survive puberty.
“Puberty takes one by surprise and affects young people and their parents, hence the title,” she said.
Herselman highlights the misinformation on the internet and social media platforms which shape young people’s perspectives.
“US research shows the average teen spends six to nine hours a day online and only 45 minutes with family. Who is shaping their world view? Parents are not talking about these things to their children. My books are meant to be catalysts for conversations in the home and creating safe environments for kids to grow up in.”
A wife and mother to three thriving teenagers, she wants to help parents create a home environment in which teens feel safe to talk about anything and process their mistakes.
“Young people must be assured that what they are going through is normal and they are not alone.”
Covering prickly topics such as changes to the body, brain, emotions and relationships, as well as sex, puberty in a digital world and sex on screen, Herselman believes the nine easy-to-read chapters fill the gap in the market which is not too cheesy, awkward or too graphic.
To ensure factual accuracy in her latest release, Herselman consulted with medical and mental health professionals, including Ballito-based obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Candice Roberts.
What Just Happened? follows Herselman’s first two publications, The Chat – Birds, Bees and Destinies and #Wellconnected – How to be Safe, Wise and Kind Online. These are available online at www.thechat.co.za
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