Sexuality education is a lifelong process of acquiring information and forming attitudes, beliefs, and values about identity, relationships, and intimacy. It encompasses sexual development, reproductive health, interpersonal relationships, affection, intimacy, body image, and gender roles.
Parents are the primary sexuality educators of their children.
Infants and toddlers receive this education when parents talk to them, dress them, show affection, play with them and teach them the names of the parts of their bodies. As children grow, they continue to receive messages about appropriate behaviors and values as they develop relationships within their family and the social environment. It is important, however, that the process of sexual learning within the family be supplemented by planned learning opportunities in churches and synagogues, community and youth agencies, and schools. School-based sexuality education programs conducted by specially trained educators can add an important dimension to children's ongoing sexual learning. Programs must be carefully planned by each community in order to respect the diversity of values and beliefs present in a classroom.