In the two previous articles, we explored sex education in early childhood and during puberty. Now it is time to address another stage that is both fascinating and complex: adolescence.
To begin, I have some good news and some less comfortable news. I will start with the latter:
if conversations about sexuality did not begin before the age of 13 or 14—whether with your children or your students—starting at this stage may feel challenging.
Why? Because adolescents may not have internalised sexuality as a natural topic that can be discussed openly, and because a solid relationship of trust may not yet have been established.
The good news, however, is that it is not too late. There are concrete ways to approach adolescents and open meaningful dialogue around the key themes of sex and emotional education.
Below, I propose five practical suggestions for starting meaningful conversations with adolescents about sex education
1-Use TV Series and Films as a Starting Point
There is no need to choose content that explicitly focuses on sex education (such as Sex Education). Almost any series or film can offer valuable opportunities to discuss relevant themes
This approach makes dialogue easier, as the conversation does not centre directly on adolescents’ personal experiences, but rather on the stories and choices of fictional characters. In other words, the topic is externalised, making it easier to approach sensitive issues.
2-Play and Read Together
Games focused on sex and emotional education, as well as shared reading, can be excellent tools for opening dialogue..
Within families, this might involve reading together books assigned at school. In classrooms, educators can propose readings that integrate sex education in a cross-curricular and natural way. Educational resources such as those developed by InLudus show how play-based learning can support reflection, dialogue, and shared understanding during adolescence.
3-Truly Listen
This point is decisive: listening.
Paying attention to what adolescents think, to their questions and opinions, is essential. Creating space for dialogue also means being open to different perspectives and viewpoints, and fostering an environment where genuine exchange is possible
4-Be Available Without Judgement
Being available does not simply mean “being present”. It means being present without judgement, without censorship, and with genuine openness.
Adolescents need adults who can welcome doubts and difficulties without minimising or dismissing them. Feeling listened to and respected is a key condition for trust.
5-Admit When You Do Not Know
Saying “I don’t know” is an act of honesty and closeness.
From there, information can be sought together, transforming the relationship from a purely instructional one into a shared learning process.
Key Topics in Sex Education During Adolescence
During adolescence, genital development becomes fully established. Sexuality is no longer limited to fantasies; there are real and concrete possibilities of sexual experiences.
Some of the central themes include:
First Experiences and Consent
Talking about first sexual experiences, personal timing, and—above all—the concept of consent.
Contraception and STI Prevention
Providing clear and accurate information about contraceptive methods and protection against sexually transmitted infections.
Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation
Topics that may emerge earlier, but which become more central during adolescence, alongside the intense psychological and social changes typical of this phase.
Substance Use and Technology
Alcohol, drugs, and intensive use of technology require open and ongoing dialogue.
Food, Diets, and Body Image
Issues closely linked to self-esteem, self-perception, and social models.
A lot to take in, isn’t it? Yet all these aspects are fundamental, and both schools and families play a key role in supporting adolescents through them.
And You?
Do you talk with adolescents about sex and emotional education?