Growing Up For Boys; Growing Up For Girls

In an animated segment in Growing Up For Boys which shows the relationship between the brain and sex, a red line starts from the pituitary gland and heads downward. It does not stop at the mouth (which professes love); it does not hang a left to the heart (which beats faster in the presence of the beloved); it goes--and I'm sorry to have to report this--straight to the penis. Especially so in adolescent boys. Hosted by singer/songwriter/narrator Bob Walkenhorst, Growing Up For Boys emphasizes that every body grows at its own pace, and then explains some of the trademarks boys entering their teenage years can look forward to: pimples, body odor, and erections. Acknowledging that adolescence is a confusing time, the video takes an empathetic tone and walks viewers through the cornucopia of changes brought on by increased hormonal activity (including voice changes, hair on various parts of the body, and the aforementioned items). Using good graphics, the tape offers a detailed analysis of the operation of the male reproductive system, as well as a primer on sexual reproduction, while pointing out that personal responsibility (and personal hygiene) are signs of the emotional maturity that eventually accompanies physical maturity. Growing Up For Girls uses the same basic format, but substitutes a female host, and covers the female reproductive system and menstruation. Although more expensive (and more serious) than the 1987 title about puberty What's Happening to Me?, these programs aimed at grades 4-6 are recommended for elementary school and larger public libraries. (R. Pitman)