The Midwest Teen Sex Show (http://midwestteensexshow.com/)

common sense media says

Edgy video sex-ed site has VERY frank content.

parents & educators say

67% say it's educational
33% say there are positive messages

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this site shows very graphic videos about sexual practices -- many of which aren't even marginally appropriate for younger teens. In fact, a disclaimer before some videos suggests that teens under 18 get parental permission before watching (which may be why some users who post comments in the site's discussion section are in their 30s). The site discusses various approaches to sex ed, from abstinence to promoting safe sex. As shocking as some of the material is, the site espouses the philosophy that since kids are having sex, it needs to be talked about.

Educational value: The site relies on shock value and taboo topics in its videos and includes links to About.com's sexuality guide, sex education site Scarleteen.com, and more. But -- even in the spirit of education -- subjects like fetishes are way too intense for younger teens.

Positive messages: The content is very "in your face." While it encourages safe sex and sex education, it clearly uses shock value to get people's attention. Though, as the site's About Us section says, it isn't encouraging teen sex -- it's encouraging "a discussion of teen sex."

Violence: A video about fetishes features some pretend hitting.

Sex: Sex is everywhere, and topics discussed include fetishes, oral sex, and more. Videos feature both male-female and same-sex couples.

Language: The language is somewhat inconsistent. One skit uses the word "bitch" twice -- but bleeps out the word "s--t." Body-part words (like "vagina") are used frequently and frankly, as are sexual slang terms like "get off."

Consumerism: An online store sells branded T-shirts; other ads link to a computer store and a sex education course. The videos are also followed by ads.

Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Blog posts include references to drinking and drugs.

Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Families can talk about why it's important to talk about subjects like sex, even if it can be uncomfortable. Families need to be clear about their values around sexual activity. Teens: If you try to talk to your parents about sex, are they going to automatically assume you're having it? Or is it OK to ask questions about the things you don't understand? Parents: When talking with your teens about whether or not they can visit this site, use the opportunity to discuss your own values about the topic.

Is it any good?

Some parents will undoubtedly be uncomfortable with the site's no-holds-barred, humor-infused videos -- in the clip about fetishes, for example, a husband leaves his wife suspended in bondage gear for two days; and in a video about the topic of pornography, the narrator jokingly suggests that you hide your porn "in your aunt's vagina; nobody will look there."

The site, which manages to be informative while also being interesting, aims to defuse the potentially controversial nature of its subject with humor -- these topics are, after all, considered taboo by many people. And the videos will definitely hold teens' attention and give them a fresh look at sex ed. It's up to parents to determine whether or not their teen is ready for the content. For a tamer take on topics like puberty and dating, try PBS Kids' It's My Life.

This review was written by Erin Brereton

Review It

What parents & educators say

Based on 6 parent & educator reviews:

67% say it's educational
33% say there are positive messages

Read the reviews

Most useful reviews by all members

Metropolisforever
teen, 16 years old

For Smart Kids Only; Not Meant to Be Taken Seriously

This site is like a giant middle finger pointed straight towards "pro-abstinence" groups and conservative nutjobs. It has a "cool older sister"-type presentation, but it's not for kids who don't know the difference between satire and reality. Obviously, much of the content on these videos is humorous, satirical, and not meant to be taken seriously. If you're mature enough to know better, it can be pretty amusing and often clever. But, if you're actually expecting "sex-ed"... look elsewhere. Seriously. Stupid kids shouldn't be on this site, but intelligent, smart teenagers with a mature sense of humor will find these videos to be highly entertaining. And, if you're looking for porn (like 90% of the people who visit this website)... look elsewhere.

The Midwest Teen Sex Show (http://midwestteensexshow.com/)

common sense media says

parents & educators say

What parents need to know

More on The Midwest Teen Sex Show

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Is it any good?

Is it any good?

Review It

Review The Midwest Teen Sex Show

What parents & educators say

Most useful reviews by all members

For Smart Kids Only; Not Meant to Be Taken Seriously

Good for anyone.

Great Information

Mostly good, but with some negative aspects.

This site makes sence.

Real Sex Ed

It is correct

Good message, but VERY dependant on parent's values

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families

Age-appropriate reviews

Advice on the big issues

vote now

Will you visit The Midwest Teen Sex Show?

Already visited it? What do you think?

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more websites

About our rating system

Browse our library of reviews

See what our editors recommend