Summary
In this conversation, Dr. Tina Shermer Sellers discusses the importance of age-appropriate sexual education for children, emphasizing that it should encompass relationship, emotional, and body education.
Dr Tina highlights the detrimental effects of sexual shame on body image and relationships, and introduces her MESS model for healing sexual shame, which includes framing, naming, claiming, and aiming for a new legacy of understanding and acceptance. In this conversation, we explore themes of self-acceptance, the impact of patriarchy on gender roles, the importance of authenticity, nurturing sacred sexuality, fostering long-term intimacy, and thriving in sexual life after divorce.
We discuss how liberation from societal expectations can lead to more joy and love in life, the necessity of open communication in relationships, and the significance of understanding one's desires and boundaries. The conversation emphasizes the need for supportive friendships and the journey towards embracing one's full sexual identity. Parents should stay ahead of their children's curiosities about sex. Sex education is fundamentally about relationships and emotional intelligence.
Finally, open communication about sexuality is crucial for children's development.
Dr Tina's Book: Amazon.com: Sex, God, and the Conservative Church: 9781138674981: Schermer Sellers, Tina: Books
Children's book referenced: It's Not the Stork!: A Book About Girls, Boys, Babies, Bodies, Families and Friends (The Family Library): Harris, Robie H., Emberley, Michael: 9780763633318: Amazon.com: Books
Takeaways
Sex education should start early and be age-appropriate.
Sexual shame can have a profound impact on body image and relationships.
The culture often perpetuates sexual shame and body negativity.
Books can be valuable resources for discussing sexual health with children.
Healing sexual shame involves understanding and reparenting oneself.
Children need to learn about body autonomy from a young age.
Positive body image is essential for healthy relationships. Liberation leads to more space for love and joy.
Cultural narratives often diminish our full humanity.
Authenticity is essential for personal fulfillment.
Patriarchy shapes harmful gender expectations.
Intimacy requires open communication and trust.
Sexuality can be a banquet of experiences.
Long-term relationships need ongoing exploration.
Divorce can be a time for personal growth.
Supportive friendships are crucial for evolution.
Everyone deserves to embrace their sexual identity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sexual Education and Parenting
09:31 Understanding Age-Appropriate Sex Education
15:00 The Importance of Relationships in Sexual Education
17:15 The Impact of Sexual Shame on Body Image
30:01 Healing Sexual Shame: The MESS Model
36:23 Liberation Through
Charity: Baby2Baby is a national non-profit organization that provides children living in poverty with diapers, clothing and all the basic necessities that every child deserves. To learn more and get involved, visit www.baby2baby.org