Part of finding the right school is understanding school culture and how they address topics important to the larger community. Sexual education is essential to the general development and growth of children and young adults.

It helps early elementary kids understand anatomy and safe or appropriate touch. In middle school sex ed assists students in understanding their feelings and the changes their bodies might go through during puberty, and how it relates to reproduction. For our high schoolers, it can help lower sexually transmitted infections and disease rates, fewer unintentional pregnancies, and the improvement of the overall mental and physical health of our youth.

Proper education can help to protect our youth (primarily ages 15-24 years) particularly BIPOC, IDD students, and LGBTQ youth, who are at a higher risk. This topic requires cooperation from caregivers, school staff, and community members to ensure our students have accurate, timely, and accessible information to help them navigate this crucial and often complex area of their lives, especially during their developmental years.

When sexual education is presented clearly and in an age-appropriate way, it can help them to advocate for their safety, feelings, and health if they ever find themselves in a compromising situation. Being verse in conversations around sexual health fosters open communication, and encourages kids to discuss sensitive topics with trusted adults, in addition to helping students feel comfortable expressing and enforcing boundaries.

We know that this is a complex and personal topic that touches on sensitive issues, which is why being on the same page as your school community is important.

According to Parent.com, 69% of parents believe that sexual education should be taught in our school system, and 70% of parents state that they feel more comfortable talking about sex-related topics to their children when provided with materials or guidance from professionals. Parents, school staff, and community members can work together to ensure that sexual education programs provided for students are sensitive, age-appropriate, and reflect – not just the values and norms of our community – but also give them the knowledge to make informed decisions for their development and safety.

Navigate STL Schools is sharing and highlighting community resources to educate and support families navigating this sensitive yet critical topic. Some of the organizations that we would like to highlight are THE SPOT, a reputable clinic offering sexual education and comprehensive health services for kids 13-24; your local library to find age-appropriate books for elementary and middle school students; and Safe Connections, an organization that helps kids understand healthy relationships or even talking with your kids pediatrician. Having a partner to help prepare for these conversations can be invaluable to some families.

Understanding a school’s approach to these sensitive topics can help to avoid awkward conversations and inconsistent or inappropriate interactions and ensure that they have relevant and accurate information on this important topic. Check out our resource kit for sexual health awareness week for additional community support agencies!