Raising Sexually Intelligent Kids

Many parents feel uncomfortable with the thought of having 'the talk' with their children, especially teenagers. But what many people don't realise is how much of sexuality education has nothing to do with sex itself. In this book, Clinical Sexologist Anisa Varasteh teaches the foundations of a comprehensive sexuality education for children and teenagers and answers the most common questions young people have about sex and sexuality. Contrary to popular belief, talking about sex and sexuality does not make young people more prone to sexual experimentation. This book provides research-based evidence for how a comprehensive sexuality education is important for children's safety, psychological and physical wellbeing. It identifies the barriers to having open conversations with children and teenagers, and outlines methods for how to overcome them. With a focus on skills, the book addresses the building blocks of sexuality education and how to develop an environment of mutual trust, it outlines key topics for discussion and the skills that children need to develop to make healthy decisions about their sexuality. Complete with practical support, including over 20 worksheets and a comprehensive list of tough questions from teenagers - and suggestions for how to address them - this book is an essential resource for parents, carers and educators who are responsible for the health, safety and development of children and teenagers.

Anisa Varasteh is a Clinical Sexologist, the Director of Relate Sexology and the President of the Society of Australian Sexologists (SA/NT branch). Anisa provides therapy to individuals and partners as well as consultancy and training on mental health and sexuality related topics to clinicians and organisations.

Introduction Part 1: Foundations of Sexuality Education 1. Why is talking about sexuality important? 2. Why is talking about sex with children awkward and strategies to overcome this 3. Building the foundation for sexuality education Part 2: Sexual Intelligence Skills 4. Attachment Styles and Their Role in Adulthood Relationships 5. Emotional Intelligence Skills 6. A Strength-based Approach 7. Value-based Decision Making 8. Healthy Boundaries Part 3: Topics to talk about with children 9. Consent 10. Provide a Balanced and Realistic View of Sex 11. Pleasure 12. Gender and Sexual Identity 13. Body Image 14. Age-based Tips for Conversation 15. Identifying and Responding to Sexual Abuse in Children