Our Schools, Their Agenda: The Threat to Comprehensive Sex Ed

How Mobilized Minority Groups Are Influencing the Sex Ed Our Kids Receive

In an era saturated with information, ensuring the youth have access to factual, research-backed knowledge is paramount, especially in areas as pivotal as sex education.

A recent "Moms for Liberty" gathering showcased a session titled "Comprehensive Sex Education: Sex Ed or Sexualization". Here, activist Kelly Schenkoske articulated concerns about incorporating the idea of "consent" within the sex education curriculum.

Recordings obtained by Popular Information from True North Research shed light on her perspective. Schenkoske believes that emphasizing consent is counterintuitive. She posits that the conventional pedagogy often leans towards obedience, suggesting that delving into consent might detract from instilling the idea of setting robust boundaries in children.

The crux of her argument? Modern sex education might be nudging children towards understanding how to consent to activities they might legally not be allowed to participate in. She asserts that the essence of consent is perplexing and champions the idea of teaching children the art of refusal and boundary-setting.

But where does empirical data stand on this?

The Empirical Perspective on Consent and Boundaries

Reinforcing Boundaries through Consent: Introducing the concept of consent doesn't undermine boundaries. It enhances them. It's about empowering the youth to make informed choices and to respect others' boundaries. Organizations like the American Psychological Association underscore the significance of teaching consent as a preventive measure against sexual violence. See research here. And here.

The Primacy of Knowledge: Comprehensive sex education seeks to arm youth with knowledge, not to nudge them towards certain activities. Knowledge about aspects like consent equips them to make enlightened decisions. Research in the Journal of Adolescent Health echoes this sentiment, highlighting how comprehensive sex education fosters safer behaviors.

The Value of Expertise vs. Opinions: In a climate where opinion often masquerades as fact, it's crucial to remember the importance of qualified expertise. While activists and concerned parents like those in 'Moms for Liberty' may offer passionate perspectives, it's experts in sexual education—those who have rigorous training and are grounded in empirical research—who are best equipped to design effective, comprehensive curricula. A nuanced understanding of sexual education is best derived from those rooted in its multidisciplinary intricacies—biology, psychology, sociology, public health, and ethics. In fields as important as this, credentials aren't just alphabet soup after a name; they're a shorthand for a deep well of knowledge and understanding that goes far beyond personal opinion.

Bridging the Knowledge Gap:

Sex education's true potency lies in its ability to enlighten and empower. If the vitality of well-researched sex education resonates with you, here's how you can champion its cause:

Invest in Real Learning: My book 'READ ME: A Parental Primer for "The Talk"' is just the tip of the iceberg. Dive deeper into the world of comprehensive sexuality with our exclusive membership program. We'll cover my 5 Building Blocks to a Healthy Sexuality—Communication, Consent, Respect, Pleasure, & Fantasy—and so much more. Become a member and get access to expert advice, community discussions, and exclusive resources that will leave you feeling enlightened, empowered, and ready to engage in healthy sexual relationships.

Encourage Talks: It's time to turn the awkward 'sex talk' into an ongoing conversation. Encourage discussions beyond birds and bees to embrace my 5 Building Blocks to a Healthy Sexuality: Communication, Consent, Respect, Pleasure, and Fantasy. These aren't just buzzwords but the cornerstone of a holistic approach to understanding sexuality. Cultivate an environment where talking about these key components is normalized, informed, and seen as vital to personal development and well-being.

Champion Grassroots Movements: Participate in local forums like school board meetings. When comprehensive sex education is on the agenda, lend your voice in support. Know that even if you are on the fence, moms from that group above are MOBILIZED and that this very vocal minority will have an impact on your kids.

Philanthropy & Advocacy: Consider financially backing institutions committed to comprehensive sex education like this one or this one. Your time, skills, or monetary contributions can have a transformative impact.

Digital Oversight: Stay vigilant about the digital landscapes your children traverse. Equip them to discern and report any inappropriate content.

Let's make sure we equip the next generation with the life skills they need -- wisdom, self-assurance, and a big ol' heart. Because trust me, when it comes to shaping a future that thrives, comprehensive sex education isn't just part of the mission—it's the cornerstone. Ready to make a difference? Click here to read more about the '5 Building Blocks to a Healthy Sexuality' and let’s lay that foundation together.

xxoo,

Lanae

p.s. My book, "READ ME: A Parental Primer for 'The Talk'" provides helpful tips and resources for parents who want to raise informed and empowered children. 

And if you’re looking for help or advice, let’s talk.