Relationships, Sexual Health and Parenthood is a national programme in Scotland https://rshp.scot/early-level/. In Primary 1 we cover the Early Level learning experiences. Some things are taught during ‘teachable moments’ and others are taught in specific lessons. Please come and talk to staff or email the school if there is anything in the programme which you would like to discuss further.
Learning about their bodies
The words we use – In early learning and in P1 at school, we will use these words: penis, vulva, bottom and nipples. We do this because if children have the correct words this means we all understand each other. This keeps them safe. And they learn that these are just parts of their bodies, they shouldn’t be embarrassed about
them. You can use these words when you need to talk about their private parts. (Just to explain, we use the word vulva because this is the correct word for the part of their genitals that the girl can see – the vagina is the bit inside).
My body belongs to me! This is the big message we want to get over to children. Children can learn that being touched is their choice. At home you can make sure you don’t tell your child they have to kiss someone goodbye or have to go sit on someone’s knee – they can decide! You can also give your child the clear message. RSHP teaches that if anyone touches or tries to touch their private parts, they can tell you and they will never get in to trouble for such a thing.
In the bathroom – When your child goes to the toilet or has a bath or shower there are opportunities to encourage them to think about what’s private. You might have heard of the PANTS rule, this is a way to say to children that their pants cover their private parts. Also, unless you have to help, children can begin to do more things independently. They can close the bathroom door, wash their hands, put on their clothes.
Royal Mile Primary School 