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Raising CO Kids Guide

Nurturing Healthy Sexual Development

The Colorado Department of Early Childhood, in partnership with Illuminate Colorado, provides guidelines for nurturing healthy development for children ages 0-12. These guidelines ensure adults interacting with children possess the basic knowledge and skills to foster healthy sexual growth and development in children.

Ages Zero to Two

Ages Two to Four

Ages Four to Six

Ages Six to Eight

Ages Eight to Twelve

Need help answering children’s questions about sexuality? Use the TALK Method.

When a question or situation of regarding sexual topics comes up, it is a good idea to take a few seconds before reacting

You want the child to come back to you with future questions and thoughts. You want to be an “askable” adult. That does not mean that you will always know the answer, but it does mean you are open to being asked and willing to search for an answer.

If you are “askable,” you don’t need to have a perfect, well-thought-out answer ready every time. Talking about sexuality is not a one-time event. You will probably get another chance to talk about the subject, adding information and clarity.

T = Think about what’s being asked. What is going on here? Is there a question behind the question?

A = Ask the child what s/he thinks the answer is. This will give you information about what the child already knows or thinks, as well as help to clarify the question.

L = Listen to the child. And take time to sort out your emotions and the message you want to give. Decide when and where you want to communicate this message to the child. It is okay to take the time to decide on exactly what messages you want to convey.

K = Knowledge sharing. Share information and knowledge with respect, and at the child’s level of curiosity and understanding, keeping your answers simple and accurate.

(Adapted from Care for Kids Curriculum, The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, 2000)

The Colorado Early Learning and Development Guidelines
The Colorado Early Learning and Development Guidelines
Are you interested in learning about the expectations for your child's development based on their age? The Colorado Early Learning and Development Guidelines describe the path of children’s learning and development from birth to 8 years old. Broken down by age and major milestones, the guidelines are a sort of map, helping parents and caregivers navigate their child's early years. Experts from across Colorado developed these guidelines to create a shared understanding and a coordinated approach to learning and development.

Curious about what your little one is thinking at this age? Wondering what you can do to help them thrive and reach their developmental milestones? Check out the guidelines using the link below.
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Raising Colorado Kids Guide is brought to you by the Colorado Office of Early Childhood.

For general help, call 1-800-799-5876 or email  cdhs_oec_communications@state.co.us

Contact Us

Raising Colorado Kids is brought to you by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood.

For general help, call 1-800-799-5876 or email  cdec_communications@state.co.us

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