Beyond the Birds and the Bees

Helping Teens Navigate Relationships, Sexuality, and Identity

Adolescence is a time when young people explore romantic and sexual relationships, form their sexual identities, and begin figure out who they are and who they want to become. Yet, many adults feel uncomfortable or underprepared to support teens through these crucial developmental milestones. This interactive workshop takes a comprehensive, strengths-based approach to adolescent sexuality, sexual health, and relationships—covering everything from social media and sexual identity development to dating violence and consent. The workshop also includes space for self-reflection and honest conversation about discomfort and bias, helping you build the awareness needed to support teens around these sensitive topics. You'll also walk away with practical strategies, conversation tools, and resources to confidently engage adolescents as they navigate the complexities of relationships and sexuality. Whether you're answering tough questions, responding to disclosures, or creating proactive education, this workshop will help you show up as a trusted, non-judgmental guide for the young people in your life.

Learning Objectives

As a result of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Define key terms and concepts related to adolescent relationships, sexuality, and identity, including sexual orientation, gender identity, and consent

• Apply a strengths-based approach to adolescent sexuality, sexual health, and relationships that honors development and builds agency

• Identify their own areas of discomfort and bias when working with adolescents around sexuality and relationships, and practice strategies for addressing these barriers

• Use at least three practical strategies and conversation tools for effectively supporting adolescents as they navigate relationships, sexuality, and identity development