Sex isn’t a 4 letter word so why can’t we say it out loud? Why can’t we talk about it with our kids? Why can’t we teach about it in schools?
People sometimes think that providing information about sexuality encourages children and teens to engage in sexual activity, which in turn might result in an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections and/or pregnancy. In fact, the opposite is true. Sexual health education provided at an early age actually reduces risk. Specifically, youth that received sexual health education were more likely to use contraception and became sexually active at a later age (Kirby, 2007).
In the past, it was often difficult to find resources adapted for the developmental and learning needs of children, teens and adults on the autism spectrum. The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) has created a Sex Ed. Guide for Self-Advocates.
This new ONLINE guide was written specifically for autistic individuals age 15 and up and includes articles, videos and knowledge testing on the following topics:
- Public Versus Private
- Healthy Relationships
- Dating 101
- Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
- Am I Ready?
- Sexual Activity
- Online Relationships and Safety
Click here to watch an introductory video and to read more.
Our Resource Centre has also prepared a helpful Tip Sheet on Sexuality & Dating with information and contact information for resources.
Douglas Kirby PhD (2007) Abstinence, Sex, and STD/HIV Education Programs for Teens: Their Impact on Sexual Behavior, Pregnancy, and Sexually Transmitted Disease, Annual Review of Sex Research, 18:1, 143-177, DOI: 10.1080/10532528.2007.10559850