Here's more information about our laboratories.

 

1. "Is it really necessary to talk about masturbation at such a young age?"
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Although children may not know the term masturbation, they often begin exploring their bodies at a young age. This is a natural and common behavior and not something we focus on endorsing or discouraging.

We provide young people with accurate and age-appropriate information about sexuality, ensuring it aligns with their developmental needs and international guidelines issued by organisations such as UNESCO or the World Health Organisation.

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In this context, we address misconceptions, such as the false belief that masturbation is inherently harmful to health and guide children in understanding their bodies, respecting personal boundaries, maintaining privacy, all in a way that fosters confidence and avoids any sense of shame.



2. "How would talking about pornography prevent the early exposure children are at risk of?"

We share your concern about the negative impact that early exposure to sexually explicit content can have on children's development. Many parents raise a crucial point when talking about the importance of a global policy response to combat children's access to this type of content, in particular by strengthening regulation. We are fully aware that young people’s access to pornographic content is beyond our control, and our laboratory approach is in no way intended to replace a more comprehensive government policy. However, while we cannot prevent the potential trauma caused by early exposure to these shocking and violent images, we do have the ability to prevent these images from distorting the initial perception that children will have of sexual relationships in reality.

Our aim is to help children understand that pornography is a fictional representation, performed by actors following a script, and that pornography in no way represents the expectations they should have of a future partner (or vice versa). We want them to understand that intimacy between partners is not about performance, but about expressing feelings and the desire for a genuine connection with the other person.

While we await the policy measures, we are convinced that early and appropriate awareness-raising plays a crucial role in protecting your children.



3. "Gender identity is not based on any scientific foundation, why is it presented on equal foot with the scientific and biological teachings? Doesn't it also clash with some religious teachings?"

We recognize the lack of consensus on the subject of gender identity, particularly within the community of healthcare professionals. 

Nonetheless, it is essential to recognize that sexuality goes far beyond biological and medical aspects to encompass sociological and anthropological dimensions. The inclusion of gender identity in our laboratory is explained by its relevance to the context of contemporary sexuality in which children are growing up. Its presence as a reality for a growing number of people alone justifies our addressing it. In fact, we've received questions from children who wonder about the sex-change operations that some people choose to undergo. There are fears and deep-seated misunderstandings linked to a lack of knowledge on the subject, and it's our role to respond to them.

On the other hand, children with a gender identity that does not correspond to their biological sex are statistically more likely to be victims of harassment and discrimination than children for whom both correspond. As mentioned at our meetings, our approach is based on awareness and respect for differences, whether scientifically proven or not. We remain committed to providing an educational space where all children feel respected, understood and supported, whatever their differences. 

As far as religious teachings are concerned, we see no conflict between our laboratories and these teachings. Our position is not to judge or validate anyone's beliefs, as long as they don't get in the way of respect for others. Once again, by encouraging respect and empathy, we are in line with the human values proclaimed by the various religions your families may practice.


 
4. "How will children's maturity, respect for different cultures, religions and opinions be assured during the sessions?"

As mentioned above, our program is based on international guidelines, and the content will be age-appropriate. That said, we are aware that children do not have the same level of maturity, but we believe it is safer to learn about such sensitive topics in the classroom from adults who have the knowledge and title to teach them, rather than learning from the Internet or peers who may misinform them.

As for the respect of different cultures, opinions and religions, as mentioned during our parents’ meetings, the objective behind our labs is not to push any personal opinion, rather to encourage an open dialogue where children feel safe to express their thoughts and concerns in a supportive environment. We aim at fostering empathy and understanding among classmates with different beliefs and perspectives by promoting acceptance and tolerance of all children, regardless of their backgrounds or religious beliefs.



5. "Are boys and girls typically divided to feel more comfortable asking personal questions and avoid mockery?"

The labs will be held in mixed-gender classes as we believe that the LIS content is important regardless of their gender. However, we know that some topics can be more sensitive (i.e menstruation), that is why we typically stay during breaks so children have the possibility to ask us their questions in a more private environment.