In some Indian families, it's often seen that the parents change the channels when there is an intimate scene on television, and even a condom or sanitary napkin advertisement. Kids are often told to go to their rooms or to go play during such ads. Parents get uncomfortable even explaining to their children about sex education. Talking about sexual matters is considered taboo in most conservative families. This kind of upbringing affects the child’s understanding of things that are important as they grow up.
Growing up, children come across so many doubts and confusions regarding sex and also their sexuality. It is a challenge when they live in such a conservative environment because they are not comfortable talking to anyone regarding their insecurities. Puberty is something children struggle to understand but most of them have no one to answer their questions. Children need to understand their bodies and the changes which come after puberty. Female body organs, Male body organs, and trans-person body organs have to be understood. Respecting every gender and trying to understand gender relations is also necessary.
In certain families, it is expected that the fathers speak to their sons and mothers to their daughters. The fact is, all genders need to know equally certain concepts. Protective sex, menstruation, sexually transmitted diseases, etc are basic things that need to be explained to children across genders.
In earlier generations, mothers were embarrassed to speak to their daughters about periods. Girls used to be clueless about handling the situation and unsure of what is to be done when they menstruate. They have to be explained in detail about menstrual cycles. Not only girls, but boys also have to be given information about periods, and the pain and uneasiness that comes with it. If parents create an environment where they are open about everything which the children benefit from and have the "talk” with them, children will in turn be comfortable asking their parents about the uncertainties they face and will not be ashamed about their sexuality. If they are natural about it, children would not find anything weird about the topic.
Proper sex education can be given in schools. Parents may or may not know the facts. There is a possibility of passing on myths to the next generation. There are many myths about masturbation, one of them being masturbating makes one blind or it is not good for their health, etc. The person who teaches should themselves be well aware of this topic.
From a young age itself, prominent topics on LGBTQ sexual health and gender identity should be incorporated. They should be informed about the basic anatomy. Everyone should be taught equally so that there will not be any further discrimination. The goal should be to make gender equality be an intrinsic way of life.
Consent is something that has to be taught to both boys and girls. There will be a lot of difference in society if this is taught to teens in earlier stages. Understanding the need for consent across genders and respecting that is of the utmost importance in sex life. Crimes like marital rape can be minimized with this approach.
Sexually transmitted diseases are one of the important issues to be discussed. Most people do not know about human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines are given to prevent cervical cancer and vaginal or vulvar cancer. Other STDs include Herpes, Syphilis, Hepatitis, Trichomoniasis, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, and HIV-AIDS. Although the guardians do not need to bombard the child with all this information, gradually they need to understand the precautions required before sex and why.
The use of protection is a pressing matter which we need to be taught. The placement of condoms effectively is of the utmost importance, which can reduce STDs and prevent unwanted pregnancies. Teaching about birth control pills should be done.
If the process of teaching is thoughtful, the learning becomes easier and more natural. Children will not hesitate before asking questions or think of the subject as taboo. It is a natural phenomenon, hence guardians should stop blushing about it and take the reins for educating and raising an informed child.
Sex Education has been a taboo topic for a long time now. The future of a child depends on their parents and teachers, to not only educate them academically but also morally. The world will be a better place if growing children are molded to be an asset to society by acting in a responsible manner and understanding and accepting themselves and others as they are.
This article was published on medium.com
