Myth Busters

I had the privilege of spending time with a class of 8-10 year olds last week to explore puberty. We had a ball and what was supposed to be a 50 minute session turned into almost 2 hours!! I was amazed at the lack of inhibition the students had to ask questions. They were firing away and we totally got off the subject of puberty but it didn't matter.
It was great to see at this age they are so interested to learn about sexual health and they were able to have their questions answered in a safe environment.It also reinforced in my thinking the importance of education in schools and at an early age.
A lot of people freak out about this as there are many mis-conceptions on what effect sex ed has to it's young audience.I came across these mythbusters the other day, it acted as a reminder to me of why sexual health education is so important;

MYTH BUSTERS
Objection
Until they are mid teens (aged 16), teenagers are too young to understand sex. Ignorance is bliss!
Response
Research shows pre-teenagers are able to understand basic sex information – e.g. how babies begin, pregnancy and birth; and differences between males and females.

Objection
If teenagers are taught about sex, they will have sex!
Response
Young people who have education about contraception and STIs say they are more cautious about what they do and they tend to make better decisions about sex. Research shows that sex education leads to postponement of sex.

Objection
Only the biological facts should be taught when the child is matured enough to understand.
Response
Sexuality education is not just the facts. It’s about relationships, helping individuals understand the consequences of their actions, and taking responsibility for controlling their own lives.

Objection
Parents alone should provide sex education to their children.
Response
Surveys in Australia, Britain and the U.S. show that around 80% of teenagers received little or no sex education from their parents. Parents are either inhibited, lack knowledge & access to resources or are embarrassed to talk about sex.

Objection
Teenage pregnancy is more common in countries or states which have sex education in schools.
Response
Teenage pregnancy is more common in countries such as Italy and the United States where there is little or no sex education. Most pregnant teenage girls are ignorant of sexual facts.

Chris.