I was afraid of it too at first.
How about talking with the boyfriend, explaining that you're a bit nervous and opening the lines of communication? Or you can just jump in and try it. As others have said, there is no right or wrong, just different. You'll learn what feels best for you, and with your boyfriends help you can learn what's best for him.
I'm sorry about your bad experiences so far with kissing - know that it doesnt have to be that way, it'll be completely different in a relationship