Comprehensive sex education can be a tough topic for many parents. Maybe you’ve heard that sex education is harmful or that it gives kids too much information too early. But the truth is, not talking about it can actually put your child at greater risk.

Let’s break this down.

Some people believe teaching kids about sex encourages them to start too soon. They think avoiding the subject keeps it off their minds. But we know that’s not how curiosity works. Kids will seek answers, whether we guide them or not.

How Comprehensive Sex Education Protects Your Child

In most areas of life, we know that having the right information helps kids make better decisions. We teach them to stay safe online, manage peer pressure, and make responsible choices. Sex education works the same way.

By providing kids with accurate, age-appropriate information, we’re setting them up to make thoughtful, informed decisions. It’s about understanding how the body works, what healthy relationships look like, and how to stay safe. Good information protects them.

And if we don’t talk to them? They’ll turn to unreliable sources—friends, the internet—and that often leads to confusion and risky behavior.

I see this almost daily in my work as a sex and relationship coach. Many of the adults I work with carry years of shame, misinformation, and unhealthy ideas about sex and relationships. They didn’t get the right education when they were younger, and now we’re untangling years of bad messaging. It’s much harder to unlearn these things as an adult, which is why getting it right from the start is so important.

If you’re unsure how to begin these conversations, my book READ ME: A Parental Primer for “The Talk” is a step-by-step guide that helps you talk to your kids at the right age, in the right way.

Teaching in Steps: How to Start the Conversation

Think about how you teach your child math or how to use the stove.

You don’t start with algebra, right? And you wouldn’t let them use the stove without explaining basic safety first. In math, you begin with simple things like addition and subtraction. Over time, as they grow, you introduce more complex ideas like fractions and algebra.

Sex education is no different. You start with the basics—teaching them about their bodies, privacy, and consent. As they get older, you add more information about relationships, protection, and the responsibilities that come with being sexually active.

It’s not about overwhelming them. It’s about giving them the right information at the right time so they’re prepared when it matters most.

Preparing for Real-World Decisions

Comprehensive sex education isn’t about encouraging sexual behavior. It’s about preparing kids for real-life situations. Just like we teach them how to handle money, cook meals, or drive a car, sex education equips them with the tools to navigate relationships and make safe, informed choices.

Studies show that kids who receive comprehensive sex education are more likely to delay sexual activity and use protection when they do. They also have a better understanding of consent and respecting boundaries—skills they’ll use throughout life.

The Risks of Skipping Comprehensive Sex Ed

When kids don’t have access to accurate information, they’re left unprepared. Research shows that abstinence-only education doesn’t stop kids from becoming sexually active. It just reduces the likelihood that they’ll use protection or fully understand the consequences of their actions.

Comprehensive sex education, on the other hand, gives kids the tools they need to protect themselves from unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and unhealthy relationships. It empowers them to make safer, more informed decisions.

More Than Just Sex: Building Life Skills

Sex education isn’t just about teaching kids facts about sex. It’s about building life skills—communication, respect, boundaries, and decision-making. These are skills that will help your child succeed both now and in the future.

You wouldn’t expect your child to drive a car without knowing the rules of the road. So why would we expect them to make safe, responsible decisions about sex without the right guidance?

Comprehensive sex education prepares your child by giving them the knowledge they need to make smart, informed choices. It’s an essential part of raising confident, healthy kids who are ready to take on the world.

For more help on how to start these conversations with your children, check out my book READ ME: A Parental Primer for “The Talk”.

p.s., The links above are affiliate links to my book on Amazon.com. If you would like to buy it directly from me, I have it available in my shop. Thank you for your support!

Lanae

About the Author The MamaSutra

Dr. Lanae St.John is a Diplomate of the American Board of Sexology and certified sex coach with a background in sexology and a passion for helping people improve their sexual health and relationships. She is the author of "Read Me: A Parental Primer for "The Talk"" and the upcoming "You Are the One: How stopping the search and looking inside will lead you to your romantic destiny," and is committed to staying up-to-date on the latest research and trends in the field. Dr. St.John aims to share her knowledge and expertise in a relatable and approachable way through her blog on themamasutra.com.

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