Sexual Health

Sexual Health

References:

How do I approach talking about sexuality with a child/adolescent?

It’s important to explain things in a way that a child can understand, given their age and level of development
You do not have to explain everything at once
Have a conversation early and continue that conversation as the child grows

What should be taught and at what age?

Toddlers: 13 to 24 months

Should be able to name all the body parts including the genitals
Should have a general understanding that genitals do not determine a person’s gender identity. Caregivers can help by not connecting sexual biology to gender (e.g., say “people with penises” or “people with vaginas”)
Should know their body is private

Preschoolers: Two to four years old

Should understand the very basics of reproduction: the sperm and the egg join, and the baby grows in the uterus
Can tell them about their birth story
Should understand their body is their own and no one can touch their body without their permission
Should learn to ask before they touch someone else (e.g., hugging, tickling)

School-age children: Five to eight years old

Should know about the basic concepts of privacy, nudity and respect for others
Most children have begun to explore their bodies by this age. They should understand that while it is normal, it is something that should be done in private
Should know how to use the computer and mobile devices safely. They should be aware of rules for talking to strangers
Should know the basics about puberty toward the end of this age span
Understanding of human reproduction should continue. This may include the role of sexual intercourse

Pre-teens: Nine to 12 years old

Should be taught about safer sex and contraception
Should have basic information about pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Should know that being a teenager does not mean they have to be sexually active
Should understand what makes a positive relationship and what makes for a bad one
Should have increased knowledge of internet safety, including bullying and sexting

Teenagers: 13 to 18 years old

Should receive more detailed information about menstruation and nocturnal emissions (wet dreams)
Should know more about pregnancy, STIs and different contraception options
Learning how to practice safer sex also means learning how alcohol and drugs impact judgment
Should continue learning the difference between a healthy relationship and an unhealthy relationship
This includes learning about pressures, dating violence and understanding what consent means
Should be taught negotiation and refusal skills as well as methods for ending a relationship

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