Regional Sex Ed Platform Love Matters Releases Arabic Children's Book

In a region where conversations about sexual education have long been shrouded in silence, Love Matters, an Arabic-language educational platform established in 2014, has been a steadfast advocate, providing scientifically accurate and accessible content on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) to youth across the Arab region.

Following their viral video campaign in June 2022, a triple-installation where children posed sexual questions to the adults around them and portrayed their responses, the platform has followed up with their first literary release, an Arabic children's book titled ‘The Birds and the Bees'. 

Written by Egyptian author Marwa Rakha and illustrated by Sally Samir, the book was crafted to empower children with the knowledge, understanding and tools to navigate their own sexual education journeys.

“The book is considered an important step towards making sexual education available to children, and empowering parents with the knowledge and tools to answer their children’s questions,” Love Matters Arabic’s Project Manager, Dr. Norhan Bader, told SceneNow. 

‘The Birds and the Bees' provides a simplified explanation of reproduction and procreation in birds, animals, insects and humans through an engaging story involving a nuclear family of four; a father, mother, boy and girl. It is a crucial tool for parents and caregivers to discuss childbirth with kids, tailoring the information to suit their needs and level of comprehension. The story also promotes interactive learning, following the principles of the Montessori methodology. 

It includes activities like colouring, cutting, pasting and drawing, which actively engage children and stimulate their senses. By involving multiple senses, the book enhances children's absorption of information and encourages them to connect with the story on a deeper level.

Released by children's book publishing house, Dar Marah, ‘The Birds and the Bees’ is available for purchase at Al-Shorouk, Al-Balsam, Diwan, Tanmia, Al-Fayrouz and Khan bookstores at a set price of EGP 200.