How to talk about SEX
and other important thingsRelationship and sex education is much more than talking to children about reproduction. Our advice to parents is to follow our top tips below for speaking to your child about their bodies and relationships, this will make the transition to talking about Sex much easier.
Ten Top Tips for Parents
1. From the very beginning always refer to parts of their bodies by the correct terms, for example, boys have a penis and girls have a vagina.
2. Ensure they are aware of the 4 parts of their body no one should touch unless they want them to: the genital area (penis, vagina), bottom, chest and mouth.
3. Reassure them they can come to you if ANYONE touches them or asks them to keep a secret (surprises are ok, secrets are not).
4. Never expect or force them to kiss people goodbye etc. We suggest that blowing kisses, shaking hands or a “high five” can be a good alternative.
5. If a child wants to touch or explore their genitals explain kindly that it’s something we do in private not in public.
6. Don’t encourage or tease about “boyfriends” or “girlfriends” substitute with “friends who are boys” or “friends who are girls”. Feeling pressured by this can lead to problems at School and with peers. Let them be children and enjoy their friendships, there is plenty of time for closer relationships when they get older.
7. Let children know what your family values are or the School ethos regarding relationships and the way we treat others.
8. Don’t assume all children are heterosexual.
9.Tell them they can always speak to you as a Parent or a trusted adult within School, to ask about things that they have seen/heard and don’t understand (again don’t assume they know this).
10. As a parent keep the channels of communication going, be interested, who are their friends at School? Who are their friends on-line? Make time to talk.
But how do I answer the SEX question?
At BigTalk Education we teach children in schools about reproduction from UK year 4 (age 8) , this includes talking about the bodies of men and women and how a baby is made. To help parents speak to their children about this, in an age appropriate manner, we have created a book for parents and children to read together, called Bodies, Babies and Bellybuttons. This book is suitable for younger children who are asking questions about where they or babies come from.
Introduction to age appropriate RSE
Our guide to high quality, age appropriate Relationship & Sex Education for your child, helping you know what to expect from us.
Parent’s sex education questions answered
We answer the most frequently asked questions that parents’ ask us about Relationship & Sex Education.
Helplines and support for parents
Information about who you can speak to if you are (or were) affected by any of the topics we speak to children about.
Parents’ feedback on the Growing Up Safe programme
Read the comments of other parents and their experiences with the Growing Up Safe programme, in their child’s school.
Parents’ of SEND children: Your questions answered
Information for parents of special educational needs and disabled children, including our mainstream and special school programmes.
Parents’ of Spectrum children: Your questions answered
Information for children on the autism spectrum and related disorders, including why high quality RSE is vital for your child.
Request information on BigTalk Education's services for your school
Introduction to age appropriate RSE
Our guide to high quality, age appropriate Relationship & Sex Education for your child, helping you know what to expect from us.
BigTalk Education's Growing Up Safe Programme
Children want their parents to be the first people to talk to them about growing up, sex and relationships. Yet many parents say they lack confidence to answer their children's questions frankly, Schools are there to help, and BigTalk Education are here to support Schools and Teachers. Members of the BigTalk Team can come into School for a part or whole day, ensuring your children (and you as parents) are well educated to keep them safe, healthy and happy! Find out more >
BigTalk Education's RSE Lessons for Life
Our Programme in Secondary Schools uses a Youth Work approach to RSE delivery, participation, empowerment and inclusion are fundamental to its success. Our Team fosters a non-judgmental, relaxed, receptive atmosphere, which doesn’t shy away from sensitive issues.
Bodies, Babies & Bellybuttons
This book is a gentle introduction for children about their bodies and where they come from. A must have for all parents to help answer your children's questions in a simple, understandable and age appropriate way.
