Families' response to sex education

In Popayán, the team has facilitated several family events at public schools, including Catholic schools, and the reaction has surpassed all expectations. It is common for some families to view these types of events as a mere institutional requirement; however, on this occasion, there was a genuine need to learn, understand, and delve deeper into the topics discussed.

Parents actively participated, asked questions, shared concerns. Topics such as grooming, the risks associated with social media use, digital apps, and strategies for parental supervision and support sparked particular interest, highlighting that there are still concepts and dynamics that many families are unfamiliar with, even though their children are exposed to these digital environments on a daily basis.

One of the most significant aspects occurred at the end of the activity, when numerous parents

approached the team to express their gratitude for the event, ask additional questions, and emphasize the need for more sessions of this kind—ones that are longer and held more frequently. They also suggested that the family events could include the participation of children, recognizing that prevention and education on these topics must be strengthened through family dialogue and collaborative efforts.

As a follow-up to this experience, the next day the team in Popayán held a participatory workshop with parents of fifth-graders, featuring activity stations and games related to Comprehensive Sex Education. The families’ response was equally positive, with their enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and high level of participation standing out. In particular, it was noteworthy that, due to institutional time constraints, not all attendees were able to go through all the stations—a situation that caused dissatisfaction among several parents, who expressed their desire to stay longer and continue participating in the activities.

This response is particularly valuable, as it demonstrates a genuine interest in these educational opportunities—contrary to the common perception that school meetings are often met with reluctance or disinterest. On the contrary, families expressed their desire for more opportunities for learning, interaction, and support that would strengthen their ability to protect, guide, and support their children in facing today’s challenges.