WELCOME TO THE BIRDS & BEES IN YOUTH WORK!
This website is dedicated to the sexual education in youth work.
It all started with a long conversation some of us had during the ToT (The famous Training of Trainers of Salto-Youth) in Budapest back in September 2019. We all complained about the absence of good quality sexual education programs in our regions and criticized the national politics, not ready to offer the support young people need, neither the training the youth workers require. After all the talking we said we would need to do something about it. One thing is so good about the ToT is that it helps you create a strong network of people to work with on the European level. It took us 2 years to prepare the project for funding and 2 years more to make it happen.
CULTURE
Sexuality is a multifaceted aspect of human existence encompassing various dimensions such as understanding of the body, emotional attachment, gender, sexual orientation, and reproduction
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It is complex, influenced by social, cultural, and biological factors, and plays a crucial role in shaping individual identities and communities. Comprehensive Sexual Education is vital in providing young people with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for navigating their sexual development in a respectful and informed manner, amidst societal and cultural complexities.
RELATIONSHIP
Starting with friendship is essential in discussing relationships as it forms a crucial foundation for deeper connections and aids in understanding one’s sexuality.
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Friends serve as a primary source of support and guidance for young people, influencing both positively and negatively. Exploring the role of friendships helps young individuals discern positive influences and fosters open discussions about sexuality. Additionally, delving into intimate relationships requires an examination of cultural and ethical frameworks, clarifying vocabulary like attraction, desire, and love, and understanding the emotional dimensions through exploring feelings and emotions, all crucial elements for healthy relationship development.
DIVERSITY
Social diversity encompasses various characteristics in societies, but prejudices often arise when individuals are grouped into categories, leading to inequality and division.
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Intersectionality highlights how multiple social identities intersect, shaping experiences of privilege and oppression, while efforts to challenge harmful masculinities and promote gender equality are crucial for addressing violence against women and fostering a more inclusive society.
BODY
There is an intricate interplay between biological factors and social contexts in shaping human development, particularly during middle childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood.
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Understanding these developmental stages is vital for grasping the challenges and experiences encountered by young people, encompassing physical, cognitive, and emotional transformations. By acknowledging the influence of peers, family, and society, we can effectively support youths in navigating these pivotal life phases, promoting their holistic well-being and identity formation.
SKILLS
We explore vital skills for enhancing sexual health among young people in youth work settings, aiming to equip youth workers with tools applicable across diverse environments.
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By understanding the interplay of cultural factors and sexual health, we can navigate sex education complexities, focusing on fostering safe environments for exploration and empowering informed decision-making. Through communication, media literacy, and support provision, youth workers play a pivotal role in promoting healthy relationships and empowering young individuals on their journey towards sexual well-being.
EXPERIENCE
Understanding sexuality as a spectrum, youth workers foster inclusive environments where young people can explore their identities freely.
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By addressing common challenges such as inadequate sex education and societal pressures, we empower youth to navigate their sexual journeys with confidence and respect for diversity. Through open dialogue, support, and resource provision, we guide young individuals towards informed decision-making and holistic well-being in their sexual development.
SAFETY
Comprehensive sexuality education aims to equip children and young people with knowledge, skills, and values necessary for healthy sexual development and respectful relationships, emphasizing inclusion, empathy, and autonomy.
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As young people increasingly engage with digital spaces for information on sexuality, educators must navigate the balance between leveraging the benefits of digital platforms while equipping them with critical skills to assess and navigate potentially harmful content, including pornography.
