How are foreign children educated about sex?

In elementary school, American children are introduced to the sensitive parts of the body and the differences between men and women. From middle school, students learn about sex, infectious diseases, pregnancy, etc.

In the UK, children begin sex education at preschool. British law clearly states that children must start sex education at the age of five. The program, called the “State Required Course,” is offered to all students in state and private schools until they graduate from secondary school. The program is divided into four parts corresponding to four age groups.

In addition, the UK is also applying the method of “peer education”. Through the development of adolescent sex education and the use of interactive images, this method is applied to limit the evils and sexual abuse of minors.

A sex education lesson in England. Photo: Safety Condom

At the junior high school level and above, knowledge about sex education is significantly upgraded, direct and detailed instructions. Students learn about sex, gender, infectious diseases, pregnancy, etc. However, the way Americans teach children also includes the content of human education: knowing how to cherish life and love the opposite sex. Meanwhile, in the US, sex education is divided according to the levels of education. In elementary school, children are briefly introduced by teachers about sensitive parts of the body and the differences between men and women.

A teacher instructs students on how to use condoms during a sex education lesson. Photo: The Guardian

According to the American Council on Sexuality Information and Education, 93% of adults surveyed support sex education in high schools and 84% support it in middle schools. Because this method makes them feel easier and more comfortable talking to their children about sex. In parallel with education at school, parents always share with their children about sex and sexuality in a straightforward and open manner. They explain thoroughly without hiding anything. At first, the children feel quite awkward and embarrassed, but later they listen very attentively.

Explicit illustrations in sex education books in Japan. Photo: Japan Society

In Japan, sex education is mandatory from age 10 or 11, and mainly covers biological topics such as menstruation and ejaculation. In China and Sri Lanka, traditional sex education consists of reading about the reproductive stages in biology textbooks. In Asia, countries such as Indonesia, Mongolia, and South Korea also have policies on sex education in schools. Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand focus on detailed reproductive health education, while India has a program aimed at children aged 9 to 16.

According to VnExpress