Primary School Sex Education
The perceptions of appropriate sex education vary from culture to culture; therefore, a sex-education curriculum usually reflects the cultural expectations of the local area. Often there is much controversy within a local culture about the most appropriate sex education that should be given to the youth. Many sexologists recommend that sex education be comprehensive and age appropriate.
For children who have not yet experienced puberty (approximately up to age 10), it is important to teach them the basics of their anatomy, how their bodies work, how babies are conceived, and what they should expect of their bodies in the near future (at puberty).
If the children will not be receiving another course in sex education in their early teen years, then primary school is the time to introduce them to other aspects of sexuality, such as, love and relationships, contraception, sexual violence information (such as, rape and domestic abuse), and sexually transmitted infections.
If the children will be receiving more sexual education in their early teens, then some of these advanced subjects can be left for a more appropriate time, such as contraception and STIs, because children are more likely to face these issues after puberty.
When teaching sex education, a teacher should always give accurate information and be approachable. Also, if a teacher is embarrassed to talk about certain issues, it may make the children feel that the subject is taboo. Therefore, a teacher should make sure that he/she is comfortable in talking with the children. Sometimes children may feel awkward about asking questions during class, so some teachers have the students write a question on pieces of paper, then fold them up, pass them in, and draw from the papers at random. This gives children a chance to ask important questions, and it also lets the teacher know what the children are curious about. Also, consider using visual aids, when appropriate, so the children can see pictures of the things being discussed.
These are just a few ideas for teaching sex education. A teacher may want to discuss with parents and other adults about what they think should be taught in class. Regardless, the education should be accurate, comprehensive, and should leave the children with an awareness of their bodies and how to protect them.