The right age to start sex education in children

Not a few parents are still hesitant to teach sex education to their children. In addition to feeling taboo, parents sometimes feel confused about choosing the right path. In fact, sex education should be introduced to children as early as possible.

Sex education needs to be given to children, so that they do not get wrong information about sex education. Remember, it is parents who should teach sex education to their children, not someone else. Because this issue is very crucial and sensitive.

Give the Right Answer and Guidance The role of parents is very important so that children get the right sexual education. Sex education according to the dose is very important to avoid psychological disorders. Because, children who are exposed to excessive sexual visualization will focus too much on sex. Well, if the condition occurs at the age of puberty, parents need to worry.

In this preadolescent phase, children usually have a strong sense of curiosity and curiosity. Therefore, parents must be able to provide the right answers and guidance. Ironically, according to family and child psychologists, most parents in Indonesia are actually angry when their children ask about sex or other things that are considered taboo in society. Well, this action is really not right. The reason is, this can give birth to misperceptions in the child's mind.

Adjust according to age According to experts from the University of Sydney, parents should be responsible for providing sex education to their children. Starting from how the body works, gender, sexual expression, and other values. Confused how to get started? Well, here are tips for providing sex education according to the phase of child development.

1. Age 0–3 years Teaching sex education to children can start from this age. Mother as a parent can tell the names of the actual body parts. Starting from the feet, hands, head, to Mr P and Miss V (of course with the original name of the genital organs). In addition, mothers can also teach children behaviors that can be done at home or in public places. For example, teach him to put on a towel when he comes out of the bathroom.

2. Age 4-5 years At this age, we can already teach the names of the internal and external body parts, especially the reproductive parts. You can also explain how a baby can be in a mother's womb. However, the language used must be age-appropriate, aka it should not be vulgar.

3. Ages 6–8 years Teaching sex education to children at this age, parents should start talking about what will happen when they start puberty. The goal, as a preparation of children when experiencing this period.

4. Ages 9–12 years Try starting to talk to your child about the changes they are going through. This is so that the child understands that menstruation, erection, and ejaculation are normal. In addition, you also need to teach them how valuable themselves and their bodies are.

5. Ages 13–18 years old Well, this is the stage where the child begins to be interested in the opposite sex. Therefore, it is okay for you and your partner to discuss issues of love, intimacy, and how to set boundaries in their relationship with the opposite sex.