Workshops

Sacred Learning Space offers sexual health education to parents, caregivers and adults working with children and youth of all ages. This workshop will build on your knowledge of sexuality with a focus on discussing the issues that concern the children and youth in your life.

Concepts such as sensuality, intimacy, sexual identity, sexual and reproductive health, and sexualization are covered. Topics discussed may include consent, intimacy, the role of technology and sexualization, pleasure and sex positivity.

There are many reasons to talk to children and youth about their bodies. The number one reason, in my opinion, is because they want to learn about their bodies and who better to talk to them then the most trusted adults in their lives: such as parents, caregivers, teachers, counselors, and health care providers. Other reasons include protecting children and youth from unhealthy situations, such as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), sexual assault and sexual abuse; and to create conversations that are balanced with a sex-positive point of view. And, everyone has the right to this information.

In smaller group environments (max 6 people) I can facilitate programming for adults who have experienced their own complex trauma and provide a safe space to discuss sexuality. A counsellor would be made available in these programs.

SEXUAL IDENTITY AND INCLUSIVITY

Children as young as 2 start to understand the concept of their own gender identity. Some children start to gain awareness into their own sexual orientation when they enter Grade 5. This workshop will give you strategies that promote inclusivity for all bodies, gender expressions and sexual orientations. The topics of STEM (girls and women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and representation will also be touched on.

Sexualization, the Media and Body Image

The advent of Social Media has created uneasiness for parents, caregivers and adults today as many of us did not grow up with the bombardment of technology and media our children and youth are experiencing now. Although there are some negative aspects to this reality, there are also positive sides. Learn strategies to build critical thinking skills and healthy boundaries around media use for the children and youth in your life.

This workshop provides you with many resources to help you become a more Approachable Adult

Learn an easy to use formula to answer those difficult questions. Learn several strategies to bring up topics when the child(ren) or youth in your life are less inclined to. Resources and a workbook are provided to take-away to support your life-long learning at home or at work.

Sacred Learning Space offers sexual health education tailored to the specific needs of the children and youth at your school.

The curriculum is based on the most updated BC Ministry of Education guidelines for health and physical education from Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Sexual health education is learned over a life-time. Therefore, it is suggested that caregivers get involved in this learning process. An Approachable Adult workshop is offered in advance of the school programs.

Preschool/DaycarE & The Primaries (K-3)

Content includes body science (including private parts) and types of touch. Learning about all parts of our body, including private parts, at a young age builds compassion and understanding for all bodies. Discussing types of touch and healthy boundaries encourages personal safety and understanding of consent.

A discussion about factors which influence self-identity allows the students in the classroom to understand each others’ decisions around gender expression. The topic of STEM and representation are also introduced.

In grade 3, healthy relationships is defined and discussed with a focus on friendships. Puberty for all bodies can be discussed as well.

Intermediates (4-5)

Content delivered to Grades 4-5 includes puberty for all bodies, media messaging, body image, identity and representation in the community, body safety & boundaries and healthy relationships. Discussion-based activities are used to cultivate emotion and understanding of students’ own media and life choices to facilitate planning of healthy and balanced goals to promote a healthy self-esteem and self-compassion through the process.

Older Intermediates and Adolescents (Gr 6+)

Content delivered to Grade 6 and 7 includes puberty for different bodies, human reproduction and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) with a condom demonstration. Healthy relationships is discussed with a focus on friendships and crushes; influences on sexual identity, including gender identity (LGBTQ2+BIPOC, STEM), sexual orientation, sex assigned at birth, gender expression, and values and beliefs around these concepts.

In grades 8 to 12 aspects of healthy sexual decision making is discussed, including:

• understanding and evaluating healthy relationships

• conceptualizing intimacy, including sexual readiness

• consent and healthy boundaries

• healthy practices that reduce the risk of contracting STIs and pregnancies including the use of barrier methods and contraception

• sexual abuse/sexual assault prevention

Potential short- and long-term consequences of health decisions is discussed including:

• understanding detection, management and prevention of STIs.

• the rights around pregnancy options, including parenting, adoption and abortion.

Influences of physical, emotional, and social changes on identities and relationships is also discussed, which includes understanding:

• gender identity and sexual orientation,

• concepts around mental health and its effects on relationships and sexuality, and

• effects of media on identities and relationships.

I facilitate small group programs (maximum 12 people) in several different modes of space for youth and adults. Spaces can be arranged within walls, in nature, or remote via Zoom Videoconference.

I facilitate group learning, discussion, movement and stillness around several topics including (but not limited to):

• consent

• sexuality across the lifespan including:

  • Puberty

  • Coming of Age Celebrations

  • Adolescents

  • Youth

  • Adulthood

    • pregnancy and loss

    • breastfeeding

    • parenting

    • menopause

    • 65+

• processing trauma in community (can include workplace trauma in healthcare, complex trauma in childhood, trauma in the backcountry). A counsellor will co-facilitate in these sessions.