Sisters, I just wanted to share a few thoughts with you on the subject of sex education for our children. I watched the Oprah show today that discussed different ages and stages of children's sexuality. The following three stages were named..... 1. Physical Curiosity - ages 0 -3 Children this age will physically examine their genitals. When a parent witnesses this behavior it is very important that they do not react in a negative manner or panic. This is a natural and normal curiosity. 2. Physical "Plumbing" - ages 4 - 7 Children in this age bracket become curious about the differences between male and female genitals and names. The best way to handle this stage is to refer to all of the body parts with their REAL names and to not act embarassed to discuss sexual anatomy. 3. Sexual Curiosity - ages 8 - 12 Children now begin to question and discuss with their peers sexual activities. This is the age bracket when it is important to have that 'talk'. It is truly essential for children to first have this explained by their parents, who they love and trust. Children surveyed definitely wanted to hear this kind of sensitive information from their own parents - not from their peers. When this talk is given, it should be given with both parents present and actively discussing the real anatomical words and explaining things such as puberty, menstruation and the act of sex itself. Whether a boy or a girl, they should hear what both sexes go through and know the proper terms for each. Parents should use this opportunity to put their child at ease and openly answer their child's questions and concerns. (perfect timing to reaffirm how sacred our bodies are.) Sisters, I just want to take this opportunity to bear my testimony on something. Our Father in Heaven has given us the revelation that 8 years old is the age of accountability of children. I find it such a testimony builder that current studies now are proving that 8 years old is the age that children go through a great deal of change and their thinking becomes much more complicated at that age. I have a book by the Eyre's - an LDS family - TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN VALUES - they had a brilliant idea in that book. They said that they take their child out to dinner alone on their 8th birthday to celebrate the age of accountability. They also take this opportunity to explain how beautiful and how sacred sex is. They teach that child all about sex that night alone. I just think that is such a terrific idea!!!!! Looking back, I think that is the perfect time to have that talk - they are getting baptized, they are ready to be accountable. I remember when my first questions about sex came up. I was 9 years old. My husband said that his questions started coming around that age too. So, 8 years old is a good age to give that talk. That way you know that you were the one to give your child that priceless talk first. You can take away much of the mystery and curiosity before they hear all of the junk from their friends. This is also a time to explain how sacred it is and that that type of careless talk and behavior (that I am sure that they will encounter with their peers soon enough) is not appropriate. That sex is so special that it should be reserved for that person that will spend eternity with - and that person only - within the confines of a Temple Sealing. My daughter is 6 and that 'talk' is coming soon. I have always been open with her about everything that comes up, but I know the talk is going to be the beginning of a whole new facet of our relationship. I want to make sure that this transition is as smooth and loving (and morally teaching) as it can be. Sisters, I would love to hear your ideas on how you have handled the 'talk' yourselves or thoughts on how you will when your children are that age. Thank you all!!!! I sure love you!!!! Tiffani