Why Sexual Health Education?
Everyone has a right to sexual health information.
Sexual health topics are mandated in BC curriculum from kindergarten through to secondary school. People have the right to know how their bodies work and how to keep themselves and those around them safe. Providing inclusive, current and accurate sexual health information equips people of all ages, identities and orientations with the tools they need to make informed and healthy decisions.
Kids are curious!
Kids are naturally curious about bodies. We tend to encourage and foster any other types of curiosity that kids express, but when it comes to sexuality we often stop short. Kids don’t see why talking about the functions of the digestive system and the functions of the reproductive system are any different because they are free of shame and social taboos. This is something worth celebrating! If kids don’t receive information from reliable sources they will seek it out elsewhere (or make up their own stories) and the information might not always serve them well.
Support for one’s sense of self.
Sexuality (which is about so much more than sex!) is such an integral part of who we are. Being open to talking and answering questions about sexual health with children and youth lets them know that their identity and development is supported. Development of healthy individuals relies largely on everyone feeling seen and heard.
Everyone has a right to sexual health information.
Sexual health topics are mandated in BC curriculum from kindergarten through to secondary school. People have the right to know how their bodies work and how to keep themselves and those around them safe. Providing inclusive, current and accurate sexual health information equips people of all ages, identities and orientations with the tools they need to make informed and healthy decisions.
Kids are curious!
Kids are naturally curious about bodies. We tend to encourage and foster any other types of curiosity that kids express, but when it comes to sexuality we often stop short. Kids don’t see why talking about the functions of the digestive system and the functions of the reproductive system are any different because they are free of shame and social taboos. This is something worth celebrating! If kids don’t receive information from reliable sources they will seek it out elsewhere (or make up their own stories) and the information might not always serve them well.
Support for one’s sense of self.
Sexuality (which is about so much more than sex!) is such an integral part of who we are. Being open to talking and answering questions about sexual health with children and youth lets them know that their identity and development is supported. Development of healthy individuals relies largely on everyone feeling seen and heard.