We owe it to our youth to not just teach them about the birds and the bees but to discuss healthy sexual relationships. In a world with easier access to pornography on the internet, young people need guidance and a safe forum to explore their feelings. 

And this is why comprehensive sex and relationship education in schools and (where possible) at home, is essential. 

But only “reproduction” is part of the schooling curriculum. 

I know from spending my teens as a volunteer Peer Educator in sexual health and relationships that pupils need to know more than simply how we reproduce. 

Then, and even more so today, relationships are complex and issues such as self esteem, assertiveness and confidence need to be discussed. 

I want to prepare my children for the future. I want them to be able to openly discuss sex, relationships, sexuality and how to live healthily and happily. 

I understand that a parents instinct (as is mine) is to shield their kids from the harsh realities of the world. 

But we need to prepare them sufficiently so they can thrive and make healthy choices. 

We need to equip them with knowledge and support them in having an open dialogue as well as alerting them about the risks certain behaviours may pose such as “Sexting.”

Knowledge is power. 

So good SRE gives our youth confidence to speak out rather than suffer in silence. 

By ignoring issues won’t mean that our youngsters won’t have to face tough decisions and dilemmas. 

Let’s get over our own prejudices and give our children a chance. 

What are your views? Please comment below and tweet me @MamaMeiBlog