Background:

Many people believe sex education shouldn’t be taught in schools because it may cause kids to be more risky or interested in sex before they’re ready. Many claim grooming is occurring by students learning about different sexualities and types of people. What does the research say? And how can it be connected to human trafficking?

Action: Look at the research

Lived Experience Expert/Survivor, Emily Robinson dug into the research about what sex education looks like and how it relates to sexual exploitation.

Read about it here.

Action: Ask yourself - if we don’t learn sex ed in schools, where do we learn it?

• Many people arguing against sex education in schools advocate that it is the parent’s job to teach children about safe sex. However, this is not the case in the majority of households today because of today’s world of high-speed internet. Pornography, the internet, and peers are the ways most kids and teens say they’ve learned about sex.

  • Read more about the link to porn and sex trafficking here.

  • Learn more about pornography as a public health crisis

Action: Teach our kids!

• Beyond advocating for proper sex education in schools, parents need to start having conversations with their kids. Here are 5 tips to begin the tough conversations at home.

  • 1. Start at an early age

    • Describe to your child what’s happening when you change their diaper, ask them for a hug or kiss even as a toddler, and be honest and accurate with all the things you’re describing. Keep in mind you don’t need to go into all the details, just be honest and answer their questions.

  • 2. Be honest and transparent

    • Stop calling it the ‘birds and bees.’ Use proper terminology and be honest and open when your kids ask questions.

  • 3. Demonstrate healthy boundaries/consent

    • Kids learn SO much by visual learning, especially early in life! They will pick up on the relationships their parents have, especially with each other. Always show respect, healthy boundaries, and communication because your child will mirror you.

  • 4. Be available and don’t just to conclusions

    • Let your child know you’re open and available to talk to about any questions or curiosities your child may have. Approach all conversations without shame and don’t assume you know why your child is asking, or assume that because they’re asking they are having sex.

  • 5. Check their understanding

    • After answering a question ask them, “Does that answer your question?” or “What do you think about that?” and be open to listening

Action: Advocate for better education in schools!

• Use these social cards about the current sex education status in American schools to advocate for better standards and learning for all!