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The DVD, intended to be shown as part of the national
curriculum, makes explicit reference to genitalia.
However, parents at a primary school in Ipswich, Suffolk said
they were "distressed" by the film's content.
Kara Monday, 27, whose daughter Jessica, five, attends Cliff
Lane Primary School, said she was "very distressed" at graphic
references made to female and male body parts and that she was worried
that children might "sexually experiment" with each other after seeing
the film.
"We are genuinely concerned that sexual activity would take
place because they would be aware of what these parts do and how to
make it feel nice," she said.
"Their innocence will be taken away at an early age."
The personal, social and health education (PSHE) curriculum
was announced in 2008, but was not made compulsory.
From the age of five,
children could be taught to recognise differences in the male and
female body and understand about touch.
Parents are able to withdraw their children from classes.
The DVD, a Channel 4 production called Living and Growing, has
not yet been shown at Cliff Lane – which has about 316 pupils aged from
5-11.
Bryony Surtees, acting head teacher at the school, said: "We
wanted to be open and honest about this sensitive issue as we are
mindful that some parents have very strong views on the matter. In view
of the objections raised, we will be reviewing the inclusion of the
DVD."
