I have a child this age. It’s not that you’re expecting them to engage in sexual activities but they ABSOLUTELY have quite detailed questions and a bit of information at this age, both information gathered from parents and observation as well as the less-than-accurate information they have obtained via the rumor mill. Yes, there’s also the internet, but despite access to the internet, I’m finding that the rumor mill to still be the primary place where this info is spread.
In addition, 10 is about the age when puberty starts on average (for girls it is often even a bit earlier), so it’s important accurate information is provided before that happens. There are 10 year old girls who often appear quite older and those girls are likely going to get attention that they may be be prepared for. It’s important that they KNOW about sexual activity in order to know that it’s OK and appropriate to say NO. Sometimes information is what STOPS kids from engaging in sexual activity that they are not prepared for. It’s the kids who don’t have that information, who may not even understand what is happening, that are more likely to engage in sexual activity.
Bottom line is accurate and early sex ed is really important. More than ever, kids need ACCURATE information about sex and their bodies.
I have a child this age. It’s not that you’re expecting them to engage in sexual activities but they ABSOLUTELY have quite detailed questions and a bit of information at this age, both information gathered from parents and observation as well as the less-than-accurate information they have obtained via the rumor mill. Yes, there’s also the internet, but despite access to the internet, I’m finding that the rumor mill to still be the primary place where this info is spread.
In addition, 10 is about the age when puberty starts on average (for girls it is often even a bit earlier), so it’s important accurate information is provided before that happens. There are 10 year old girls who often appear quite older and those girls are likely going to get attention that they may be be prepared for. It’s important that they KNOW about sexual activity in order to know that it’s OK and appropriate to say NO. Sometimes information is what STOPS kids from engaging in sexual activity that they are not prepared for. It’s the kids who don’t have that information, who may not even understand what is happening, that are more likely to engage in sexual activity.
Bottom line is accurate and early sex ed is really important. More than ever, kids need ACCURATE information about sex and their bodies.