Unit 4: Sexuality

PUBERTY

Puberty is the time when your child moves through a series of significant, natural and healthy changes. The physical, psychological and emotional changes are indicators that children are moving from childhood towards adulthood.

If we introduce these topics when children are early elementary we can make puberty a regular part of the discussion. When these topics are introduce in an age-appropriate way, then when students are at the age where it actually becomes really relevant they do not feel as awkard or uncomfortable about it.

Puberty education reduces anxiety and improves attitudes in adolescents and normalizes discussions.

As educators, if we are able to push through that wall of discomfort, then there is a better chance for your students to stay safe and have a safe person to talk too. If we don't, chances are they will seek information elsewhere usually on a computer which can be two clicks away from inappropriate/misinformation.

INCLUSIVE PUBERTY

We want to make these conversations easy for students of all sexes and gender identities to discuss together, to help them be all more respectful and accepting of each other. If we separate puberty talk by biological sex, it can creates a cloak of secrecy and shame, and this feeling that whatever's going on with them is dirty and gross. It also leaves out trans and nonbinary kids. Childhood is already so gendered, and the differences between sexes and gender identities so emphasized, we need to move away from this and allow an open and safe place for dialogue to occur.

Teaching about puberty includes teaching about human sexuality. This does not mean just teaching about how bodies change and function. Human sexuality includes the following aspects: biological (sexual and reproductive anatomy), psychological (mental health and self-esteem), social (relationships and individual identity), spiritual (values and beliefs), and behavioural (how we express our sexuality).

CONSENT LETTER FOR PARENTS Template

(modified from Kim Dalton (Spice of Life Sexual Health Education), an Opt-Certified Sexual Health Educator)