All too often wider public debate about sex and relationships education stalls on the question of responsibility: is it a job for parents or for schools? Polarising the issue in this way may make for a dramatic media discussion, but it is profoundly unhelpful to children and young people.
We know from what they tell us that many young people want their parents to be the first people to talk to them about sex and relationships. We also know that a significant number of parents find the subject difficult or embarrassing, and prefer to leave it to schools.
What we need here is nothing less than a culture change. This means finding ways of ensuring that parents have the skills and confidence to discuss relationships as well as sex with their children, within the context of the family's own values.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
