by Michelle Powers

Created on: December 01, 2008   Last Updated: May 23, 2012

The United States has the highest rates of child abuse and neglect! There are about three million reports of child abuse and neglect a year. The officials fear that numbers are much higher in child abuse and neglect cases because many cases are not even reported to the authorities. Child maltreatment is a large problem here in the United States. Child maltreatment includes physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, or neglect.

 The United States has the highest number of child maltreatment deaths. The United States child abuse death rate is 11 times higher then Italy and three times higher than Canada's. (Homeland Insecurity, 2008) These are some of the facts that cause this author and others to say, "I am not proud to be an American." Adults everywhere have a responsibility in making sure today's youths are safe and well taken care of, are we not suppose to be the land of opportunity? Though it may sound corny, today's children are really tomorrow's future. Adults can change those statistics by giving children the education and knowledge they deserve. Education is the key to success, and a bright future. Education helps children obtain knowledge and knowledge gives them the tools to be successful.

Teaching children about sexuality gives children the tools they need to communicate clearly with parents and caregivers; giving them knowledge is giving them power. For the purposes of this essay, sexuality is defined as vocabulary terms for genitals and good and bad touch. Teaching children about sexuality starts at a very young age. One of the ways to make teaching about sexuality easier for parents/caregivers is to practice.(Better Health Channel, 2006) When parents/caregivers decide to talk to their children, they should pick a place that is comfortable and where they will not be interrupted. There are a lot of resources for parents/caregivers to access; pediatricians often will helpful tips and suggestions. Parents/caregivers can also visit their local library or bookstore; there are many children's books that talk about anatomy and the basics of sex education.

It is important children are given the proper vocabulary, so they can communicate clearly with others. Baby talk, nicknames, or cutesy names for genitals, or any other anatomy, are not helpful and can be confusing to a child.(Planned Parenthood, 2004) Proper anatomy vocabulary is key in helping make the learning process successful and easier. Proper vocabulary will lessen the chances

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• Next Page >>