16 • MODULE FIVE: DECISION-MAKING
Tips for the facilitator- The activity is very useful for older children.
- The time may have to be extended because a warm-up and some introduction are needed.
- A baseline or quick assessment of the existing knowledge and comfort level of the children in
relation to this topic would be extremely helpful, as would visual aids and models. - The facilitator must be careful not to make value judgments and must be comfortable with sex
and sexuality issues. - One may have to do this activity with single sex groups.
- Go through each list. If it is a mixed group, then ask a boy volunteer to say, “I want to have sex
with you...” The girl volunteer then says, “No, I do not want to get pregnant.” From the list, the
boy or girl reads out the reasons not to have sex. Do this quickly so as not to exceed five
minutes. - Explain that delaying sex can be difficult. Ask the children what they would suggest if they
wanted to help some friends. (It is easier to discuss this issue if you say it is for friends than for
yourself. Make sure everyone understands it is their body, and it is their right what to do with it.)
The list could look something like this:
- Be clear about how far to go. Do not give mixed messages;
- Do not accept rides from people you do not know;
- Do not be alone with anyone;
- Do not be impressed by romantic words;
- Do not accept presents (then you might feel obliged to have sex);
- Be honest, just say no; and/or
- Do not drink; then you cannot control yourself.