"Anyone who supports people with disabilities in the realm of social relationships needs to recognize their role and to think about and be deliberate in their practice." (Newbury Jones, 2006)

What is sex education for people with disabilities?

All people including those with disabilities are sexual beings. Historically, society has not viewed these people as being sexual and today's society still treats them differently. They are often denied sexual health information and education about how to function in society and how to be valued as a sexual being.

Teaching people with disabilities about their sexuality helps to:

• protect their safety
• respect their value as members of our community with unique learning needs
• teach societal expectations and legal rules

"Parents and those who care for children with developmental disabilities, need to realize that when we advocate for sex education for children with developmental disabilities we are advocating for a thoughtful approach that teaches the right skills at the right time." (Hingsburger, 1995, p. 19).

Topics in sexual health education: