When teachers take the time to prepare themselves for the task, they normally find their classes run very smoothly. Four things to keep in mind:
Consider your own feelings
Familiarise yourself with the topic
Be prepared for common questions
Practice answering questions
Why should I talk to my students about sexuality?
Teaching your students about sexuality requires more than simply explaining anatomy and reproduction. It means talking to them about relationships, families, parenthood, and good decision-making. Sexuality encompasses our physical development, sexual knowledge, attitudes, values and behaviours. It is shaped by our culture, family history, education, and experiences.
Children learn about sex and sexuality every day. Yet, the information they receive from the media and from their peers may be incorrect or ineffective. When children are given honest and accurate information from their teachers and parents, they can learn to make responsible decisions.
Talking to your students about sexuality and puberty enables them to grow into sexually healthy adults. As children enter puberty, they will experience physical, emotional and social changes.
But I don’t know much about puberty. What do I need to know?
Teachers often feel nervous before they talk with children about puberty and sexuality. Part of this apprehension may stem from a basic lack of knowledge. One of the best ways to increase your comfort level with the subject matter is to consult various resources.
Where can I start?
Most good sexuality education programs include an on-going segment that allows students to ask questions confidentially. This simple strategy enables youth to participate in defining the content of the curriculum. The goal of the question box exercise is to identify preteens' genuine concerns about puberty and sexuality, and to offer them responses to their inquiries.
The responses should be factually correct, guide decision-making, encourage openness, and promote sexually healthy attitudes and behaviours. It can be challenging to answer questions in an age-appropriate way while also conveying positive sexual health attitudes. In sexual education classes, teachers will be asked to answer some tough questions.
