SEX EDUCATION part 1

What is sex education?

According to Wikipedia, "sex education is instruction on issues relating to human sexuality, including human sexual anatomy, sexual reproduction, sexual activity, reproductive health, emotional relations, reproductive rights and responsibilities, sexual abstinence, and birth control." 

Most times when we say sex education, parents and teens shy away from this topic because they think it must be about discussing some uncomfortable topics. Yes, sex education has some "uncomfortable" topics but it is important that these topics are discussed so that teens can make wise and informed choices. Therefore today I will address two issues - self awareness and self management.

1. Self Awareness- When a child approaches the puberty years usually between 9 - 13 years. The child begins to notice some changes in his or her body such as painful and swollen breast, hair in the pubic area and armpit, cracked voice, etc.  The child begins to consciously notice the difference between being a boy or a girl, he/she begins to become more aware of his or her personality, beliefs, values, strength and weaknesses. At this point, it is important that if you are experiencing such, you should not freak out and start wondering what in God's name is going on with me?! What is happening to you is as natural as breathing. Everyone experience it. What you need to do is to tell your Mum or Dad and also begin to practice what I would like to call self management.
2. Self Management- According to www.selfmanagementforkids.org, Self Management is "the ability to make wise choices to achieve a fruitful and joyous life". That definition to me is superb! If self management means that I am assured of a Fruitful and Joyous life while making WISE CHOICES, am all for it!! i dont know about you though. In this fast paced and constantly changing world in which teens grow up, it is important for teens to develop Self management skills in order to handle the various pressures they face. Some of these self management skills as listed by the site are as follows; 

Treating oneself and others with respect

Making responsible choices

Valuing each person’s uniqueness

Understanding how the brain works

Taking care of one’s body

Using personal power in a positive way

Managing personal feelings

Communicating clearly

Using self-discipline

Solving problems

Working with others successfully.

In subsequent posts we will further discuss each skill. 

In the mean time, you can share how old you were when you became self aware and how you have practiced self management or even what areas you think you need to improve in your self management skills.