VOX: Sex education – should or shouldn’t it start in childhood?

Sex education is a topic that many young people want answers about, but often have nowhere to get them. For a variety of reasons, whether because they are too ashamed to ask their parents or others, or because of a lack of clear and accessible information, they run the risk of ending up with incorrect or even false information. In this context, the question arises: should sex education be addressed from childhood?

Many young people believe that sex education should be introduced in schools to give them the information they need to understand how their own bodies work.

“I think sex education should be taught in schools so that children understand how their own body works,” said one young person.

This is a view shared by many who consider sex education to be a topic of major importance in today’s society.

Another young person added: “I think it is quite an important topic for modern society.”

His argument reflects a general concern about the need to provide accurate and comprehensive information about sexuality to help young people better navigate the physical and emotional changes they are going through.

In a landscape where technology plays a key role in young people’s lives, some believe the internet can be a valuable but also risky source of information. “More on the internet, ChatGPT, like any child in the 21st century,” said one person, emphasizing how online platforms can play an important role in learning, but also the risks of getting the wrong information.

Another young person emphasized the importance of learning from an early age in the family: “From the internet and from parents.” But how can a child get clear and correct answers to questions about sexuality if parents don’t feel comfortable discussing these topics? Hence the need for accessible and accurate information to prevent misinformation.

As young people begin to form opinions and understand their own bodies, sex education becomes crucial.

“If this topic is not discussed early, young people can make mistakes in adolescence,” said another young person, highlighting the dangers that can arise when there is no formal or appropriate framework for learning about sexuality.

Several young people emphasized that sex education should not be limited to adolescence.

“Yes, I think that from the age of 3-4 years they should talk about it,” said one young man, suggesting that sex education should start from a very early age, through gradual and age-appropriate education so that children can understand the concept of consent, personal boundaries and their rights.

It is very important that such topics are approached at an appropriate age, adapted to each person’s stage of development and from reliable sources. Approaching sex education in a responsible and informed way can prevent many of the risks that come with a lack of education in this area.

In conclusion, sexuality education should not be a taboo subject, nor should it be a subject to be tackled only in adolescence, but an ongoing process that starts at an early age and must be based on reliable sources to help young people become informed, responsible and physically and emotionally healthy adults.