Children and learning about sexuality

If your child has a disability they also need to learn about sexuality and relationships. They need accurate information that suits their age and development.

This can help to build their confidence and a positive attitude to their sexuality, and make them less vulnerable to sexual exploitation and abuse.

As with other children, it’s best to:

• talk about sexual issues simply and easily in everyday situations
• help them learn about the changes of puberty before they happen - and give them the correct words to use
• repeat concepts a number of times or reinforce them in different ways
• help them learn about privacy, safety and basic sexual matters
• seek help from professionals if you need it - your doctor or school counsellor may be a good place to start.