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Sex Ed Videos Past and Present

April 9, 2010

“Mom, I think I’ll take a bath. I just feel dirty.”

I vividly recall that line from the “girls” sex ed video I saw in sixth grade. It was the early 70’s, and the school nurse had chased out our male teacher and the boys, and she had pulled the heavy maroon drapes across the windows. We could hear the boys laughing outside, trying to peek in to see what the fuss was about.

My best friend and I giggled throughout the fuzzy black and white movie until the nurse stopped the film projector and asked why we were laughing. I said, “Because there’s no reason for the girl to feel dirty. She just has her period.”  The nurse wasn’t happy with my answer. She said that if we didn’t stop being disruptive, we’d have to leave the room. That would have been OK with me, except I didn’t want to be stuck with the boys outside. So, I had to listen to more crummy messaging about how periods required girls to avoid strenuous activity — especially horseback riding, which could hasten cramps and cause sanitary pads to dislodge, or so the narrator said.  We also learned that pool parties would be out, as would baths. After the girl stated the line above about wanting a shower, her mother said only showers were safe during “that time of the month.”

Click here to see clips from other sex ed films that used to be shown in schools. You also may be interested in the archives of SexSmartFilms, which also has some empowering new films about sexuality and disabled adults.  And here’s a terrific animated video about how conception occurs, brought to you by Planned Parenthood Federation of America. The internet is a treasure trove of video resources for sexuality education. Just choose search terms carefully, and think twice before conducting your search on a workplace computer.

Written by MDavis · Filed Under Buzz on the Birds and Bees, Sex, Honestly 

What’s your question or concern about children, teens and sexuality? Drop me a line or make a comment, and I’ll address it. You may also find answers in my book, Sexuality Talking Points, or purchase a private phone or in-person consultation. See the Product page to order.

Comments

2 Responses to “Sex Ed Videos Past and Present”

  1. SWB on April 10th, 2010 5:57 am

    Awesome SexSmartFilms clip, thanks for the laughs!

    I can’t believe you watched a video like that in the 70’s, it’s like reading some of the medical stuff from 100 years ago! I guess it’s good to have some perspective of how far we have come on the sex education front. Especially when sometimes it seems that we still have such a long way to go…

  2. Melanie Davis on April 10th, 2010 1:23 pm

    You’re welcome. We’re trying to make a dent, each educator in our own way!

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