Do We Need Sex Education in School for Teens?

Posted by in School Education on December 22, 2011

There was a time when talking about sex simply did not happen. That was many moons ago. Now, teens are beginning to have sex at younger and younger ages, and this changes the playing field. Everyone knows that parents need to talk to their kids about sex education, but the lines are not as clear about sex education in school settings. How can we educate our children about sex without endorsing it and should that be a decision made by our school system? This is just one of the many considerations on this important social subject.

The Argument For Sex Education in School

Those that support this say it is because the kids are not getting the right amount of information at home, and that the school is only enhancing the subject for the parents that do talk with their kids. Schools have been known to give out condoms, and take other steps that help to ensure our kids do not get pregnant. They say that sex education helps those kids that are sexually active to do so safely. Some even claim that sex education in schools actually helps to prevent sex at a young age.

The Argument Against Sex Education in School

As a parent, I firmly stand against sex education in school. The reason is rather simple really. Sex education in school can run contradictory to what a parent feels is appropriate, and the parent should have the final say. Here is an example: Read the rest of this entry »

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Sex Education For Toddlers and Pre-Schoolers

Posted by in Sex Education on December 22, 2011

Talking to toddlers and pre-schoolers about sex can be very challenging for many parents. Sex education for young children is a natural responsibility for parents.

At some point, toddlers and pre-schoolers usually get curious about their own bodies. It’s best to let them explore and ask questions at their own pace. Parents can benefit from being honest and frank with children at these early ages. For instance, when a child becomes curious and asks about a body part, giving the proper body part name, rather than a “nickname” like some parents are inclined to try, or perhaps trying to avoid even addressing the questions. This may send a message of dishonesty or mistrust to the child once they get a bit older and realize mom or dad cannot seem to call it the proper body part name.

Also parents can benefit from taking any conversation about sexual awareness seriously, without joking or shame or embarrassment. It is the nature of children to be curious, and denying them this curiosity may affect the parent-child relationship and bond. As an example, many dads have never been able to even refer to female body parts with their daughters without some level of embarrassment or discomfort. Most times, this awkwardness started when their children were babies, and can affect the relationship for years. Read the rest of this entry »

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