Me Neither is a term that is becoming increasingly popular in conversations around consent, and it refers to the idea that just because one person is comfortable with a certain activity, it doesn’t mean that the other person is too.

Teaching students about Me Neither is an important step in promoting consent education and ensuring that relationships and sexual encounters are always consensual and respectful.

The concept of Me Neither is rooted in the idea of enthusiastic consent: the idea that both partners should be fully on board with any sexual activity before it takes place. While most people understand that consent means saying “yes,” it’s important to recognize that a lack of “no” doesn’t necessarily mean that someone is fully comfortable with a situation. This is where Me Neither comes in – by recognizing that both partners are equally responsible for ensuring that they are both comfortable with any sexual activity, students can learn to prioritize clear communication and mutual respect in all of their relationships.

When teaching students about Me Neither, it’s important to start with the basics of consent education. Students should understand that consent is an ongoing process, and that it must be informed, enthusiastic, and freely given. They should also understand that consent can be withdrawn at any time – even if it was initially given – and that everyone has the right to set and enforce their own boundaries.

Once students have a solid understanding of consent, it’s time to introduce the concept of Me Neither. This can be done through hypothetical scenarios, role-playing exercises, or class discussions. For example, students might be asked to imagine a situation in which one partner wants to engage in a particular sexual activity, but the other partner is hesitant. In this scenario, the Me Neither approach would involve both partners taking responsibility for their own comfort and communicating openly about their feelings. Rather than simply going along with the activity because they feel pressured, both partners would acknowledge that they are not comfortable and work together to find a solution that works for both of them.

As teachers, it’s important to remember that discussions around Me Neither can bring up a wide range of emotions and experiences for students. Some may feel uncomfortable or vulnerable discussing their own boundaries and experiences, while others may feel defensive or resistant to the message. It’s important to create a safe and supportive environment in which students can share their thoughts and feelings, and to provide resources and support for students who may need additional guidance or counseling.

In addition to teaching about Me Neither in the context of sexual relationships, it’s also important to apply the concept to other areas of life. Students can learn to recognize when they feel uncomfortable or out of their depth in social situations, and to communicate their boundaries effectively in those situations as well. By emphasizing the importance of clear communication and mutual respect in all interactions, students can develop valuable life skills that will serve them well in all areas of their lives.

In conclusion, teaching students about Me Neither is an important step in promoting consent education and ensuring that all relationships are respectful and consensual. By emphasizing the importance of clear communication, mutual respect, and ongoing consent, teachers can help students build healthy relationships and develop valuable life skills for the future.