56 | Sex Education & Body Safety in Autism | Cath Hakanson
Talking about sex education can feel uncomfortable for many parents, especially when raising autistic or neurodivergent children and already balancing so many daily demands. Questions around consent, body safety, privacy, relationships, and boundaries can feel overwhelming, and many families were never shown how to approach these conversations themselves growing up.
In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with Cath Hakanson, founder of Sex Ed Rescue, to discuss practical and neurodiversity-affirming ways parents can approach sex education with less fear and shame. Cath explains why sex education is not one giant “talk,” but instead a series of everyday conversations that help children build safety, trust, autonomy, and understanding over time.
The conversation also explores why becoming an “askable parent” can make these topics feel far less intimidating for both parents and children.
Listen to the Full Episode
Listen to the full conversation with Cath Hakanson on the Autism Family Resource Podcast.
Memorable Quote
“Information isn’t permission. It actually empowers kids.”
In This Episode We Discuss
• Why sex education begins earlier than many parents realize • How to become an “askable parent” • Teaching body autonomy and consent in everyday life • Why honest conversations help children feel safe • Supporting autistic and neurodivergent children with explicit teaching • Public versus private behaviors and boundaries • Helping children make informed and safer decisions
Key Themes From the Conversation
Sex Education Is About More Than Sex
One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is that sex education is much broader than most parents expect. Cath explains that teaching body safety, emotions, privacy, relationships, boundaries, and consent are all part of sex education.
For many families, these conversations are already happening naturally during daily life.
The Importance of Being an “Askable Parent”
Cath shares how becoming an “askable parent” helps reduce pressure around these conversations. Instead of preparing one giant lecture, parents can focus on creating a safe environment where children feel comfortable asking questions as situations arise naturally.
This approach can be especially helpful for autistic and neurodivergent children who may benefit from more direct and ongoing communication.
Consent Starts Early
The episode also explores how consent begins long before dating or teenage years. Respecting a child’s boundaries, allowing them to choose how they greet others, and teaching that their body belongs to them all help build a foundation for safety and self-advocacy later in life.
Brian and Cath discuss how important these conversations can be for helping children recognize uncomfortable situations and communicate their needs confidently.
Common Questions Parents Ask
When should I start talking about sex education with my child?
Cath explains that sex education starts much earlier than puberty. Teaching body part names, privacy, feelings, and consent in simple ways during early childhood can help create a strong foundation over time.
How do I make these conversations feel less awkward?
Short, everyday conversations often feel easier than one big “talk.” Staying calm, honest, and approachable helps children feel safe asking questions naturally.
Why is explicit teaching important for autistic children?
Some autistic and neurodivergent children may not automatically pick up on subtle social expectations or boundaries. Clear and direct conversations about privacy, consent, and relationships can help improve understanding and safety.
Why This Conversation Matters for Families
Many parents avoid these topics because they are worried about saying the wrong thing or introducing information too early. But avoiding conversations entirely can leave children relying on peers, social media, or the internet to answer important questions.
This episode reminds families that conversations about body safety, consent, and relationships do not need to be perfect. They simply need to stay open, supportive, and grounded in trust.
For autistic and neurodivergent children especially, these conversations can help build confidence, safety, communication skills, and self-advocacy over time.
Resources Mentioned
Sex Ed Rescue:https://sexedrescue.com/
Sex Ed Shop:https://sexedshop.com/
Sex Ed Membership for Parents:https://sexedshop.com/products/sex-ed-membership
SECCA:https://www.secca.org.au/
Cath Hakanson Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/cathhakanson
Cath Hakanson Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sexedrescue/
Cath Hakanson LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathhakanson/
About the Guest
Cath Hakanson is an autistic ADHDer, parent of neurodivergent children, nurse, and founder of Sex Ed Rescue. She helps parents approach sex education in practical, shame-free, and neurodiversity-affirming ways that support safety, healthy relationships, and body autonomy.
Related Resources for Parents
If you found this episode helpful, you may also enjoy these resources:
• Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy: Supporting Your Child’s Unique Strengths
• Positive Behavior Strategies for Neurodivergent Children at Home and School
• Understanding Autism Meltdowns: What They Are and How to Support Your Child
• IEP 101: How to Advocate for Your Child in the School System
Explore more parent resources at:https://pureheartstherapy.com/blog
