How can we safeguard the youth in regards to sex education in schools?
Firstly, it is the responsibility of the parents to speak to their children at home and explain to them that even though they have learnt this in school, they are not yet able to fully understand it. In fact, people have started speaking up against this here as well, and have said that before the age of 13 or 14, children should not be taught certain aspects of sex education. Similar voices will begin to be raised in other places too, as people are starting to realize this in some areas
Secondly, if there are questions in the minds of the Atfal, then they should be addressed in a wise manner. You should explain to them that this is not the age for them to comprehend such matters. This is a form of knowledge that they will only be able to understand when they reach a certain level of maturity. Therefore, even though the school has taught them this, they are not able to fully grasp it yet
It should not be the case that one speaks to them in a harsh tone or discourages them from asking questions. More than the Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya, it is the parents’ responsibility to address this issue. Therefore, the parents must be educated. The Mohtamim Atfal should write to the parents explaining how they should educate their children about this topic at home. From the various reports of activities submitted by Nazimeen and Mohtamimeen, it appears that more than one-third of the Atfal are not participating in any Jama’at activity—not even in prayers. You report that around 70–80% are participating in Chanda collection, but they are not involved in other activities. Therefore, even if Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya makes an effort in this regard, it will only reach around one-third of the Atfal, and even among them, only a certain percentage will pay attention to the message. Thus, the best course of action is for the Mohtamim Atfal to prepare a set of guidelines and share them with parents—especially those who are less educated or lack awareness about such matters—so they can then speak to their children
I have mentioned this previously in my sermons and addresses: parents should form a bond of friendship with their children and speak to them in a friendly manner, so that the children can understand. The real moral training of children is done at home. Within Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya, you can only speak to them about such topics occasionally, when the opportunity arises. When that opportunity does arise, you should explain to them that these are matters they are not yet mature enough to understand. In fact, children often become confused or concerned about what is being taught, as they have no real awareness of these matters. When you explain to them that they are not yet ready to comprehend it, they usually understand. Of course, there can be exceptional cases where some children begin to think more deeply about such things and may even go astray. This can have a psychological impact and may even lead to mental health issues. But generally, if you want to make any effective effort in this regard, you must involve the parents. A comprehensive plan and clear guidelines are needed so that you can reach 100% of the children
