How Do I Start Teaching My Kids About Sex and Relationships?

It’s clear that you’re a thoughtful and dedicated parent who wants the best for your kids, and that's the most important foundation you can have for teaching about sex and relationships. Kudos to you for prioritizing inclusivity, openness, and empowerment for your children!

The first step is to recognize that sex education is a lifelong journey, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time, especially since you already have a solid foundation. It’s also important to approach this as a dynamic and ongoing conversation, rather than a single "talk." Here are some practical resources and advice to help guide you through the process:

1. Sex Positive Families: This organization offers online workshops, books, and resources tailored to parents who want to teach their children about sex, relationships, and more in an open and affirming way. Their resources can help you start discussions while also ensuring that your teaching is inclusive and accurate.

2. Our Whole Lives (OWL): This is a fantastic, inclusive curriculum developed by the Unitarian Universalist Church. The secular versions are available for home use and can help guide you through topics ranging from puberty to relationships, sexuality, and consent. It’s comprehensive and widely respected for its balance and accuracy.

3. Advocates for Youth – 3Rs Curriculum: If you're looking for a free, modular, and comprehensive K-12 sex education curriculum, the 3Rs curriculum is a great option. It’s flexible, inclusive, and designed to meet kids at their different developmental stages.

4. Books: For supplemental material, there are some wonderful books out there by authors like Heather Corinna (founder of Scarleteen) and Cory Silverberg. Their books cover a wide range of topics and are specifically geared to be inclusive, accessible, and affirming, including LGBTQ+ topics. These books are a great way to open conversations or allow your children to explore topics independently.

By combining these resources and your ongoing open discussions, you’ll be able to create a comprehensive, inclusive, and age-appropriate sex education experience for your kids. Remember, your curiosity and openness are your strongest tools in making this a positive and empowering process for them. Keep fostering that safe space where your children feel comfortable asking questions—they’ll thank you for it later!

You’ve got this! 😊