The sexual education mandate of the Planning Familial encompasses a vast array of subjects, from erasing taboos around sexuality to educating on topics like gender stereotypes, puberty, and contraception. All this is important for children’s and young people’s development. And there is a lot of demand: over 8,000 people used their services in 2021, a record number.
Planning Familial attends schools, day centres and maisons relais, and meets individuals at their own locations.
Sexuality is an existential need, an integral part of one’s identity and personal development, says Sandra Michely, coordinator at the Planning:
“Children who received sexual education from an early age are empowered to take certain decision in interpersonal relationships. They also tend to be more protected against abuse. They can differentiate between what is right, what’s okay, and what isn’t.”
They also tend to have sex later and be better informed about contraception and STIs. Of course the classes and meetings have to be age appopriate.
Sandra Michely: “What is sexual education in cycle 2 and 3? We talk about diversity, gender stereotypes. About emotions, expressing feelings, we learn to say yes but also to be clear about no, setting boundaries and respecting our own bodies. The aim of these activities is to empower children.”
Later, topics include puberty and changes in the body. Then, at secondary school level, further subjects are added, such as the first gynaecologist appointment for young women.
The service also runs various projects. One of them is called “Hues de froen” (Do you have questions?).
Sandra Michely:“We designed a poster with an email address and opened an Instagram account to remain accessible for young people during the pandemic and the lockdown.”
In parallel, they developed a guide for adults, which answers questions frequently asked by young people.
Another project revolves around consent. According to the Planning Familial, around 10% of young people felt coerced into sexual activities in their first relationship. It is important for kids to learn step by step how to express their wishes and set boundaries. The message is clear: “No means no”.
