Honest, Sensitive Answers Reassure Children (Press, 18 June 1987)

On 18 June 1987, a news article highlighted a discussion session on puberty hosted by the Family Planning Association (F.P.A.), specifically designed for children and their parents. The sessions had evolved over the past decade, prompted by requests from Parent-Teacher Associations at intermediate schools, as formal education on such topics had been outlawed in the school syllabus until recent changes permitted some discussion. During one of these evening sessions, an 11-year-old boy raised questions on various topics related to sexuality and reproduction, illustrating the curiosity of the children attending. Questions ranged from childbirth to the meaning of miscarriage and aspects of sexual intercourse. Sue Billing, chairperson of the F.P.A.’s national education committee, noted that children’s inquiries often stemmed from personal experiences or conversations they overheard. The article pointed out that while some parents expressed hesitation regarding discussions of sexuality with young children, most found reassurance in the manner their questions were received—honestly and sensitively. Parents often appreciated the opportunity for open communication about these topics, contrasting with their own upbringing. A significant aim of the F.P.A. sessions was to equip both parents and children with a comprehensive understanding of human sexuality, thereby fostering ongoing dialogues at home. Teenagers also benefited from discussing their relationships and sexuality within a supportive school environment. Feedback from fifth-form students in Christchurch indicated that these courses significantly enhanced their understanding and comfort in discussing these subjects, with many expressing that such discussions had helped strengthen their relationships with parents. For over 50 years, the F.P.A. has prioritised sexual education and understanding, which has become a substantial focus of their work over the past decade. They employ part-time educators in major centres and utilize volunteers in smaller ones. Their educational efforts extend across diverse community groups, providing training for teachers and resources for parents, as well as courses on various topics related to sexuality, relationships, and health. The article also referenced concerns regarding adolescents' self-esteem, with particular emphasis on issues faced by teenage girls. A supervisor from an Auckland clinic remarked on the devastatingly low self-esteem among young women, who sometimes accepted abusive relationships as normal. The development of self-worth in these adolescents was recognised as a vital part of the F.P.A.'s mission. Additionally, the F.P.A. offers various educational resources, including books on contraception and sexuality topics, aiming to provide thorough information in a society where comprehensive discussions about sexual health and relationships have increasingly been acknowledged as essential. Overall, community acceptance of sexual education and open conversations about these subjects has grown significantly, reflecting a broader shift in societal attitudes.

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