Can Television or Media he helpful in promoting sex education?

Television can be a very effective medium for a multitude of reasons (As it is basically an audiovisual medium it can reach out to the illiterate as well as the literate masses). ‘Sex’ is considered a taboo in our orthodox society. If sex education were to be given via a public mass medium such as television, ii would reflect the government’s healthy attitude towards the issue and can decrease the social taboos significantly. Because of its tremendous reach, it will increase public awareness and pave the way towards ‘ii honest social environment and sexual literacy.

It is a medium through which education may be passively imparted to the masses, in the privacy of their homes. Thus, shy individuals who are unable to ask questions or seek help are also provided with the information they desire. Proper information about contraception and sexually transmitted diseases can help in spreading information about Family Planning and also decrease the incidence of STD’s. The potential for television, as an effective medium for sex education, is unlimited.

What is most important for parents to remember while giving sex education?

It is important to encourage the child’s question as a constructive curiosity and answer truthfully at a level appropriate to his age. It may happen that when a child asks a question, the parents might not know the answer or, because of their own values, they are unable to reply. At such moments, one may admit “That’s a very good question but even I do not know the answer… well, let’s find out.” Such parents have a better chance of bringing up their children to respect them than those who are not responsive to their children’s sexual needs and curiosity; in other words, those who are not approachable. There are some children who never seem to ask questions. It would be an error to assume that since no questions are asked, no answers need to be given.

“Where did I come from?” What is the answer to thin question?

When a child asks this question ‘Where did I come from?’ one can begin by saying “You came from a place, inside mummy’s body.” If the child can trust you not to be too rigid or hostile in your response to his questions, he will look upon you as a source of wisdom and guidance. Additional information relevant to the question asked may be given as he/she grows and is ready for knowledge suited to that period of development.