Child Protection Week
Sep 10, 2021
National Child Protection Week is between 5th-11th September 2021.
This year’s theme is: Every child, in every community, needs a fair go.
To treat all of Australia’s children fairly, we need to make sure every family and community has what kids need to thrive and be healthy.
When I think about this theme in regards to sexuality education, I think about a child’s right to be educated about body autonomy.
Understanding that your body is your own and the basics of basic is fundamental knowledge for a child. These lessons are ones that they will carry with them throughout their whole lives.
UNESCO research backs the importance of comprehensive sexuality education and impact it can have on the prevention of child abuse. It states that comprehensive sexuality education “promotes health and well-being, respect for human rights and gender equality, and empowers children and young people to lead safe and productive lives.”
You can read more in UNESCO’s International technical guidance on sexuality education: an evidence-informed approach.
Teaching your child body safety is so important. This includes teaching them the correct names for all of their body parts, including genitals, without shame, as well as having them establish their body boundary. Children need to know who in their lives are their trusted adults and that they can go to them when they feel (or have felt) unsafe.
All of these lessons are crucial in the prevention of child abuse.
This National Child Protection, think about how you will ensure your children, and the children in your wider community are given a fair go. What information do they need to ensure they are safe and well informed about their bodies? Let’s all make sure our young people are well equipped with information to have safe and healthy relationships.
Resources
Teaching your child body safety is one of a parent’s most important roles blog
UNESCO International technical guidance on sexuality education: an evidence-informed approach
National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN)
Australian Childhood Foundation
