Help for talking
about sexual issues with your special needs child
By: Christine M. Riley,
Education Advocate, Cape Cod Advocate
Let’s face it--we’re less
than thrilled to talk about relationships and sex with our child. Covering the
subject with a special needs child can be even more uncomfortable.
Why it's important
Since they
are especially vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, it is essential to broach
the subject early. It’s also important that young people with special needs get
positive messages about sex: they need practical information to guide them
toward healthy attitudes.
The good news is you don’t
have to do it alone! Public schools can help teach these skills through goals
on the student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
Get it in the IEP
Massachusetts schools do
not require sex education; rather local school boards make the decision. In
Cape Cod most schools offer sex education as part of the state’s preferred health cirrucula. For example, Barnstable incorporates this health
curriculum, PreL-12, including issues dealing with human sexuality beginning at
grades 3-12. Parents are welcome to review curriculum at the school and have
the right to exempt their children from any portion that primarily involves
human sex education or issues.
Since sex education is typically
part of the standard curriculum in Cape Cod public schools, then it too can be
modified for those with special needs.
We believe the school is
obligated to incorporate sex education under IDEA--under the broad mandate that
is required for a transition plan. A transition plan teaches
students skills they may need to live as independently as possible as they
become adults, which should include relationships and sex education.
What the law says
U.S. and Massachusetts law
mandates these transition services to students between the ages of 14 and 22
and they are part of the student’s IEP. A case can often be made that transition
planning should begin in middle school, especially when it comes to sex
education.
The IEP goal is for
individuals to lead a meaningful and productive life. Entering the adolescent
world with appropriate sex education provides protection from predators and
those looking to take advantage.
Parents start early
Parents should be prepared
to begin sexual discussions at home early, and continue them often. The
two-pronged sex education approach from parents at home and the school, via IEP
goals, will only benefit your child as he or she matures.
Excellent resources to help you
Advice for parents and a
wealth of resources to use with your child are contained in the Healthy Relationships, Sexuality and Disability 2014
Resource Guide. This comprehensive
document, compiled by Massachusetts Department of Public Health in concert with
the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services, is one of the most
helpful guides I’ve come across on this subject.
Experienced advocates can make the difference
The guidance and knowledge
of an experienced education advocate like Cape Cod Advocate can make the
difference between adequate and early preparation of your child, whose relationship
and sexual issues are no different from other adolescents. Give us a call today
to talk about strategies for ensuring sex and relationships education are included
in your child’s IEP.
Christine M. Riley established Cape Cod Advocate 11 years ago to provide educational consultation and advocacy for children of all ages and disabilities. A certified mediator, she is trained through Wrightslaw and the Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN). Christine is a member of National Council of Parents, Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) and Special Needs Advisory Network-Massachusetts (SpaN) and is a former board member of SPaN, FCSN, ISEA and SEAT.