Ever since my boys were little, I’ve tried to talk to them in age-appropriate ways about sex. They know where babies come from; they understand that everyone’s the boss of their body; they won’t flinch if you talk about tampons.
But, as they grow into young men, I sometimes wonder as I lie awake in bed, will they keep listening to their ol’ mom? What about the other teenagers in their lives? What else are they hearing online and out in the world? Who are their positive male role models?
Sex ed in the movie Mean Girls
This morning, I came across the TikTok account Sex Ed for Guys, run by students at Colby College. Their goal is to teach young people how to make healthy choices in their sexual lives, and when I tell you my heart swelled…! One video talks about how intoxicated people aren’t able to give conscious consent; another normalizes male friends expressing platonic love for each other, another encourages people to check in on friends who seem to be struggling.
And two that made me laugh? These workouts for respecting women:
@sexedforguys Someone’s gotta respect these women, why not you? #fyp #foryoupage #4u #trend #women #funny
@sexedforguys The toxic men gonna haaaate this one. #fyp #foryoupage #4u #trend #hit #viral
Love this account!
Now I’m curious: How do you talk to your kids about sex? Do you have any books you like? Who do you consider to be positive male role models? (I admire Steph Curry’s sportsmanship, mentorship, and vocal support of his spouse and family.) I love and root for all these sweet boys so much. xo
P.S. Six words to say to your child, my love letter to Queer Eye, and five ways to teach kids consent.
(Photo by Duet Postscriptum/Stocksy.)
