Parents of sixth-graders can prepare themselves for changes and talk to their youth openly. Let your child hear about the positive things you see happening this year as he grows and matures. Many sixth-graders are like butterflies. Not only is a physical metamorphosis taking place, but mental and social changes are also occurring. The onset of menstruation in girls and signs of puberty in boys emphasize the difference between men and women.
Physical changes initiate a normal sexual curiosity in youth.
Sexual curiosity is increased through magazines, movies, television commercials, T-shirt slogans, bumper stickers, greeting cards and music videos. Although most parents believe sex education should begin in the home, few seem to find the time or the courage to accomplish the task. Studies show that parents can be a great influence on the preteen's sexual knowledge. But because parents provide limited information, schools, peers and literature are the biggest sources of sexual information for preteens. Preteens deserve factual information for their healthy development.