The main idea of introducing sex education to children is to make them aware of the changes their body will undergo, the associations and emotions they are going to feel sooner or later in their life, and the cost of careless sexual actions. The method of teaching the children that parents should use could vary from one child to another. Any form of teaching can be adapted with full liberty, especially if that is the method the parents know their children would learn from the most.

It is always assumed that the first teachers of a child about sex are his parents. And this is quite right. Nobody can teach a child better than his own mom and dad. For one thing, sex education should be introduced at an early age, most preferably before children start schooling or when they first spring the question “How did I came to be?”

Teaching children about sex and their sexuality should be treated with honesty, no matter how young or old the child being talked to maybe. It is the complexity of the subject that has to be regulated. Very young children, mostly the 3 and 4 year olds, do not have to learn about orgasm just yet, but the much older ones needs to. Caution and honesty have to be practiced at all times when talking about this subject.

It is also important that parents give their children the chance to question and participate in the discussion. Education is a two–way skill every teacher has to master. As a parent and the teacher of your child, always assume nothing and encourage your children to ask questions as you go along. And make it a point that you answer each question they ask very truthfully regardless if it is related to sex or not. This could actually be a start of a more open relationship between you and your child.

Parents should set the groundwork of sex education in their children. The community and schools are always there to support them, but these two groups can only do so much than a pair of responsible parents can. Being judgmental or demeaning about it is not going to help. Instead, carefully straighten his views and give him support. Disrespect and anger should not be implied towards them, especially those past the age of puberty, as they tend to be more rebellious and willful during such stages.

What is sex education?
Sex and Relationships Education (SRE) in schools is a graduated, age appropriate programme which teaches children and young adults about sex, sexuality, emotions, relationships and sexual health. It is based around the three main elements of attitudes and values, personal and social skills, and knowledge and understanding. It aims to be age appropriate, and topics covered may include:

• The importance of marriage and stable relationships
• How to avoid teenage pregnancy
• How to recognise and avoid abuse and exploitation
• Skills on how to avoid being pressured into unwanted or unprotected sex
• The benefits of delaying sexual activity and avoiding risky behaviour
• The consequence of unsafe sex