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Sex education can be a difficult topic to broach as a parent for a variety of reasons. This includes the stigmas attached to sex education topics such as periods or pregnancy and the sad fact many of us never received empowering sex education at school meaning we don’t have the tools we need to convey confident messages to our children. Furthermore, the challenges young people face are ever changing and can be difficult and heartbreaking to keep up with.
If this resonates with you then please don’t worry, we hear parents tell us this very regularly. You’re not alone.
Sex Ed Matters discussing sex education with parents at the Southbank Centre, London, 2023
There are many pieces of advice we suggest to help you support your children, including:
Be as open minded as you can. Students often tell us they don’t share their worries with parents because they assume they won’t understand or take the time to really listen, even if this is not the case in reality. Asking your child regular questions and not passing judgement about their views is a great way to show them you’re always there and you’re keen to learn from them. This will maximise the chances of them opening up about their anxieties with you so they can be kept safe and confident.
If you don’t understand something, for example a sexuality term you overhear your child talking about to a friend, don’t be afraid to ask. This can show you’re interested in learning more and could be a powerful gateway into their world!
Ask your school what sex education they’re providing so that you can continue the conversation at home. This will not only help consolidate learning objectives but it will also give your young one the chance to share any thoughts or worries which may have been sparked by the topics they’ve been learning or to ask questions if they haven’t fully understood something.
Download our resource free samples which can arm you with all the information you’ll need to have confident and empowering sex education discussions with your child - and they’re curriculum-aligned!
Approach sex education topics, including periods, friendships, sexuality and consent, with confidence so your child will grow up knowing not to be afraid to talk about these important subjects.
If you’re worried about your child in any way, don’t be afraid to reach out to their school tutor or head of year. They’re there to help and to keep your child safe.
Sex education can feel daunting initially, but keep in mind that it can be such an empowering subject that can make a real difference to your child’s life. You’ve got this!
We hope this blog has been helpful, but do let us know if we can support you any further at all. We offer workshops to parents as well as resources and much more! Feel free to email us at info@sexedmatters.co.uk or arrange a call here. Sign up to our newsletter here to keep up to date with our work.