The Bent Banana

Sex education done differently.

  • The Evolution of Sex Ed in Australia: From Morality Lessons to Modern Day Challenges

    The Evolution of Sex Ed in Australia: From Morality Lessons to Modern Day Challenges

    Sex education has been part of Australian schools for over a century, yet even today, there’s a lot of uncertainty around what’s being taught and what’s missing. A History of Morality Over ScienceWhen sex ed was first introduced, it wasn’t about biology, relationships, or pleasure. It was about morality. Thanks to advocacy from groups like…

  • I think I’m having Wet Dreams – asked by a 12 year old

    I think I’m having Wet Dreams – asked by a 12 year old

    A 12-year-old boy recently asked about the changes his body experiences during puberty. While he understood the physical transformations, his primary concern was whether what he was experiencing was normal. The key takeaway from this conversation wasn’t just the facts about physical development—it was the sense of reassurance. The relief was visible when this child…

  • What is 69? – asked by an 11 year old

    What is 69? – asked by an 11 year old

    One of the most common concerns parents express is: “How do I protect my child from being exposed to sexual topics or concepts that I feel are inappropriate for their age?” While you can take steps to limit exposure through rules and monitoring, it’s nearly impossible to shield them completely. The real challenge lies in…

  • Will I get boobies too? – asked by a 7 year old

    Will I get boobies too? – asked by a 7 year old

    Ah, the curious mind of a 7-year-old! Maybe they caught you undressing, saw you in the shower, and wondered why I don’t have boobies like Mum yet? Will I get boobies like Mum too? Well, here is the deal: As you grow older, your body will go through some changes, just like how it has…

  • Can a 12-year-old who is having sex get pregnant? – asked a 12-year-old

    Can a 12-year-old who is having sex get pregnant? – asked a 12-year-old

    Hey there, curious minds! Let’s get honest about a question that might have left you scratching your head. No doubt you learnt about what sex is and how pregnancy can be an outcome of sex and have wondered what would happen to you if you had sex, right? Well, brace yourself because the answer is…

  • Opening the Dialogue: Exploring the Importance of Discussing Sexual Terms with Children

    Opening the Dialogue: Exploring the Importance of Discussing Sexual Terms with Children

    Lately, there has been some contention around whether children should be educated on anything sexually related, with topics like gender identity, transgender, gender fluidity, and non-binary, to name a few, trending on social media.  On one side of the camp, you have people who do not think children should be exposed to this information, that…

  • The way porn lies to our kids and us

    The way porn lies to our kids and us

    If you have read my article regarding Rule 34, you will know that porn has changed dramatically over the years.  Not only is it more accessible, but there is more of it, catered around categories designed to influence your sexual preferences.  This abundance of porn has led to this overarching concept that: sex is instantaneous…

  • What are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?

    What are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?

    STIs are infections caused by pathogens passed from person to person via unprotected sexual contact.  More than 30 bacteria, viruses, and parasites are transmitted via sexual contact.  Out of the 30 pathogens, 8 are responsible for the most significant incidence of STIs.  Of the 8, 4 are curable, and 4 are incurable viral infections.  The…