Now there is no reason for this reticence and false shame. The whole process of reproduction is a wonderful example of the wisdom and goodness of the Creator, and if properly explained the child will see that it is so.
Again, there are physical epochs through which all young people must pass. These are quite natural, but unless explained and the children are prepared to expect them, may cause great alarm. In their distress they are very likely to enquire from impure companions, or get some of the pernicious literature which is issued in quantity by the quacks who prey upon the fears of the young, and upon their dislike to speak to their parents on a subject which the latter have taught them by silence is one which is unmentionable.
It may be asked when this information should be given. No rule will fit all cases, as children vary so much in their development. We would urge that it should be given early, as Miss Willard well says:—"See that the pure thought gets in first." Besides, children grow up much faster than their parents are apt to realize.
The evils of self-pollution are so great, and the cure so difficult, that no risk should be run of such ever being commenced through ignorance. In fact this is the main reason for our undertaking the separate works on this subject. It is so saddening to reflect that a career of vice is often entered upon through the child's ignorance of the laws of its own body, that the natural reticence in speaking of the subject should not be allowed to prevent the information being given.
