Sex Education for Children Can Start at the Age of 3 to 4 Years, This is the Explanation of a Psychologist

JAKARTA - Sex education for children is now increasingly seen as an important step to protect children from various risks of violence and sexual abuse.

This education is not meant as a discussion of sexual relations, but rather an introduction to the body, self-limitation, security, and the child's ability to protect himself from an early age.

The Indonesian Psychology Association (HIMPSI) considers the age of 3 to 4 years as the right phase to start providing sex education to children, of course, with a simple approach and according to their development.

"Education can start from an early age of around 3-4 years, of course, with very simple language and according to the child's stage of development," said HIMPSI Aceh Region Treasurer Devi Yanti, M. Psi., Psychologist as quoted by ANTARA.

Devi explained that at this age range, the focus of education is not related to sexual activity, but rather on body recognition, personal boundaries, and security. Sex education at this stage serves as a resource for children to understand their bodies, build healthy relationships, and protect themselves from potential violence.

Educational materials also need to be adjusted to the age of the child. For children aged 3 to 5 years, parents can start introducing the names of body parts with the correct pronunciation.

Parents also need to include an understanding of the private area as a part of the body that must be mentioned appropriately. In this case, it is important to emphasize that private body parts such as genitals and breasts should not be seen or touched by others without medical reasons and without parental accompaniment.

In addition, children should also be introduced to the difference between types of touch, both safe, confusing, and uncomfortable touches, so that they are able to recognize risky situations.

"Don't forget to teach children about the right to say no and report to a trusted adult," said the clinical psychologist at the Aceh Mental Hospital.

Sex education can continue at the age of 6 to 9 years with a clearer understanding of body boundaries and privacy. At this stage, children also need to be directed to recognize who the adults they can ask for help if they experience sexual harassment or violence.

Children at this age also need to understand that the risk of violence can come from both strangers and people who are already known. In addition, parents are expected to start providing basic introductions related to body changes that will be experienced before puberty.

Meanwhile, for pre-adolescent children or around 10 years and above, Devi emphasized the importance of a more comprehensive understanding of the physical and emotional changes that will occur when entering puberty.

"Regarding this, children also need to be taught about the concept of healthy relationships, respect, and consent, as well as the risk of sexual violence, bullying, and security in the digital world," he added.