Care for Kids is an Early Childhood Sexual Health Promotion and Sexual Abuse Prevention Program.

Why a Sexual Health Education Program for Young Children?

• Children are sexual people from day one, playing with toes, fingers, bellybuttons, and "private parts".

• Toddlers already know that boys and girls are different.

• Preschoolers ask "Where do babies come from"?

• Older children wonder if they are "normal".  They ask "What is AIDS"?

• By taking the opportunity now to talk openly, and satisfy their curiosity, we increase the chances that children will continue to come to us for help in sorting out all the confusing messages they will receive about sexuality as they grow.

Why Childhood Sexual Abuse Prevention Education?

• Sexual abuse of children can begin in the preschool years.

• Most abusers are known to the child.

• Abuse may be a gradual, seductive process, rather than a physically violent experience.

• Adults have control over children's lives, but can't protect them from all sexual abuse.

• We can have open conversations and establish positive attitudes so that children will come and ask for help if they are confused about touching or secrets they are asked to keep.

This program is implemented in nursery schools and elementary schools in Peterborough County, on a request basis.

Parent Sessions

Parent information sessions are offered prior to implementing the Care for Kids series.  Information is provided on:
• normal child sexual development;
• healthy responses to sex questions and play; and
• materials and themes used in the Care for Kids program. 

Topics for Children

The following topics are presented to children over seven sessions:

• Bodies • Babies • Feelings • Bedtime  • Touching • Secrets and Surprises

All Sessions ...

• have fun and creative activities;
• are developmentally appropriate for children 3 to 8 years of age; and
• have homesheets for family activities.

More on Giving Your Child Healthy Sexuality Messages...

• "Askable Parents" Help Combat Childhood Sexual  Abuse
• Teachable Moments - Birth to Age 8
• Healthy Sexuality Messages
• Growing Up Sexually Healthy
• Talking about Sex
• What is Care For Kids?

 

For more information, contact the  Child Health Program at  743-1000 ext. 235

For more information about sexuality for preschoolers or children in primary school, 
click here ...