Learners' Own Words

Sexuality can be an uncomfortable topic to discuss with youth, especially if you don’t have the skills and confidence to navigate those conversations in useful ways. Along with a lack of confidence, myths and assumptions still persist that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities don’t need sex ed information because they’re not sexual beings or aren’t interested in relationships. But whether you’re working with young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities or neurotypical individuals, the need for equitable sex ed is the same.

Youth workers need to know there are very few differences between discussing sexuality with neurotypical individuals and individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities. The education itself is not really very different; it's mostly just the pace you take it and learning to take a concrete approach to social rules and things that are illegal. By challenging stereotypes, overcoming your fear, and developing confidence, you can be an empowered resource for equitable sex ed for all young people.

Many of the skills you’ll learn in this training will apply to both young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) and those without. You’ll gain equitable sexual health strategies, resources, and confidence to address healthy relationships, consent, and boundaries with young people and young adults. You’ll learn a framework for answering difficult questions so you can respond to sexual behaviors in a positive way instead of worrying about saying something wrong.

• Learn about equitable sexual health strategies you can use when working with young people of all abilities
• Gain confidence in addressing the topics of healthy relationships, consent, and boundaries
• Know where to access resources related to sexuality education for people of all abilities
• Learn a framework for answering difficult questions and responding to sexual behaviors in a positive way