BY Sharon Gordon
Every now and then I overhear something that really triggers me. It is usually from someone that I expect more from. Mostly it’s around ignorance and fear. Yesterday I heard a mum say that she doesn’t want her child to watch some cartoons because it encourages bad behaviour.
While I was growing up, we watched Bugs Bunny and Road Runner – both filled with violence, and I still haven’t killed anyone.
My biggest trigger is when parents don’t educate their children about sex and consent. If you think your children are innocent little angels and are too young to be talking about sex (in an age-appropriate way) – think again.
Education doesn’t not encourage promiscuity, it empowers.
This country has some horrific statistics when it comes to sex crimes. There were 42 780 rapes reported last year. This does not include sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, attempted rape and rapes not reported. That’s 117 a day. Interpol has classified South Africa as the rape capital of the world.
I’m a firm believer that if we educate, we can help resolve the problem.
This year I’ve read about some of the worst assaults. A Grade 7 pupil allegedly raped a Grade 2 girl in the toilets at a school in Limpopo.
A 15-year-old boy has allegedly raped eight children ranging in ages in Cape Town. A young boy 13 allegedly raped his 2-year-old brother in their bedroom.
In 2020, 2 665 births occurred to girls aged 10 – 14. Think about that for one second!
Besides the outrage of children having children that is 2 665 statutory rapes.
Worse than that the semen donors have got away with no consequences. They haven’t been shamed, charged and certainly not convicted. Those babies who had babies have been convicted to a life sentence. Let’s also remember that a child born into poverty rarely escapes poverty.
Educating children about sexual health and consent offers numerous benefits. It fosters their well-being, safety, and development.
Here are some key advantages:
1. Promotes Healthy Relationships
Understanding Boundaries: Teaching children about consent helps them understand personal boundaries and respect others’ boundaries.
Communication Skills: It encourages open and honest communication about feelings, expectations, and relationships.
2. Prevents Abuse and Exploitation
Awareness: Children learn to recognise inappropriate behaviour and understand their right to say no.
Empowerment: Education empowers children to report abuse or uncomfortable situations to trusted adults.
3. Supports Physical and Mental Health
Informed Choices: Knowledge about sexual health enables children to make informed decisions about their bodies.
Reduces Anxiety: Providing accurate information can reduce fear and misconceptions about sex and health.
4. Promotes Gender Equality
Respect and Equality: Education about consent fosters respect for all genders and promotes equality in relationships.
Challenge Stereotypes: It helps break down harmful gender stereotypes and encourages mutual respect.
5. Encourages Responsibility
Safe Practices: Children learn about safe sexual practices, reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies.
Responsible Behaviour: Education promotes responsible attitudes toward sex and relationships.
6. Improves Decision-Making
Critical Thinking: Children develop critical thinking skills to navigate complex social and sexual situations.
Life Skills: They acquire important life skills such as empathy, respect, and accountability.
7. Supports Overall Development
Self-Esteem: Understanding their own bodies and rights can boost children’s self-esteem and body image.
Healthy Development: Comprehensive sexual education supports overall emotional and psychological development.
8. Reduces Stigma and Shame
Normalising Conversations: Open discussions about sexual health help normalise the topic and reduce stigma and shame associated with it.
Inclusive Education: It fosters an inclusive environment where all children feel respected and acknowledged.
9. Prepares for Adulthood
Future Relationships: Early education lays the groundwork for healthy and respectful adult relationships.
Lifelong Skills: The skills and knowledge gained are applicable throughout their lives, promoting long-term well-being and happiness.
Educating children about sexual health and consent is a crucial aspect of their development.
It equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate their relationships safely and respectfully, promoting overall well-being and fostering a society based on mutual respect and understanding. Your fears and prejudice should not deprive them of their power.
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Saturday Star