Using Cartoons to Teach Sex Education to Children
Teaching children about sex education is still considered taboo by some segments of society, given that the topic is often deemed inappropriate for those of a young age. However, an NGO, Pocket of Pink (POP), is working to shift this perception through a cartoon-based module titled “Express to Empower: Bodies, Boundaries, and Identity”.
The Need for Sex Education
The module is led by graphic designer and project leader Ain Husniza Saiful Nizam, a 20-year-old student of International Politics at the University of Nottingham. She believes that sexual education is essential to foster knowledge of self-autonomy and protection against exploitation. Many children are unaware of what sexual harassment is or what constitutes sexual misconduct, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.
The "Good Crowd" Concept
One of the main concepts in the module is the "Good Crowd", which educates children on how to build healthy relationships and ensures comprehensive education. This approach is deemed most suitable for the targeted age group, as cartoons are a powerful medium through which difficult messages can be conveyed.
The Cartoons
The module uses simple language and includes activities like crossword puzzles to make learning both engaging and enjoyable. Developed from September, the English module was introduced to the public at a cartoon festival in KL recently. POP hopes to publish a Malay-language edition of the book soon.
Future Plans
In the near future, POP aims to introduce more books in the same series, focusing on aspects such as safe touch, safety at school, and bullying. They also hope to hold a tour programme to allow more children and parents to access the book.
Conclusion
Threats like pedophilia and child exploitation are increasingly real. Sex education should be seen as the first line of defence for our children. The younger they learn, the better prepared they will be to protect themselves. POP hopes that with support from various parties and relevant ministries, this module can eventually be distributed for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the cartoon-based module?
A: The module aims to educate children about sex education, personal safety, and the dangers of sexual abuse.
Q: Why is cartoon-based learning effective for this age group?
A: Cartoons are a powerful medium through which difficult messages can be conveyed, making it an effective approach for this age group.
Q: How much does the book cost?
A: The book is currently sold at RM25 per copy, but POP hopes to make it available for free with support from various parties and relevant ministries.
Q: What are the future plans for the module?
A: POP aims to introduce more books in the same series, focusing on aspects such as safe touch, safety at school, and bullying, and hold a tour programme to allow more children and parents to access the book.