Family-based sex ed class gives parents the tools to tackle the tough questions
Growing up today is a lot different than what parents of adolescents experienced when they were young. A tweet or photo — posted in a matter of seconds — can result in days or years of regret. And though just about any question can be answered online, with that access comes a virtual world that can threaten and exploit young people.
Parents more than ever need to be the primary teachers of sexuality education of their children, but often do not how to teach them. “Kids Need to Know,” the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department’s Family-Based Sexuality Education program, is now enrolling.
The upcoming class, geared for fifth- and sixth-grade girls, meets for two hours once a week for five weeks. The course begins with a “parents only” night where curriculum and materials are discussed and any questions are answered. Following Parents’ Night, the class continues with weekly parent-child sessions for four more weeks. One parent or guardian accompanies the child to each class. A boys' class is planned for this spring.
Lawrence resident Shannon Oury attended the course with her daughters when they were in sixth grade. She said "Kids Need to Know" helped open the door to discussing some tough topics.
"What we got out of the class was that it started that dialogue so that the uncomfortable conversations really weren't that uncomfortable," Oury said. "One of the best parts about it was... right after each class on the drive home was the opportunity to ask follow up questions, which really made a difference."
Reproductive body parts and purposes, puberty, pregnancy, childbirth and sexually-transmitted diseases are discussed. Decision-making skills are emphasized. Videos, games and other interactive activities help make the classes fun and interesting.
The girls class will be held Tuesdays, Jan. 17- Feb. 14 from 7 to 9 p.m. The cost is $50 per family. Sign up by Thursday, Jan. 12. For more information or to register, visit the Health Department's web site or call (785) 843-3060.
Kids Need to Know by ldchealth
Spring girls family-based sexuality education class now enrolling
Parents need and want to be involved in the sexuality education of their children, but often do not how to teach them. “Kids Need to Know,” the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department’s family-based sexuality education program, is now enrolling.
The class, geared for fifth- and sixth-graders, meets for two hours once a week for five weeks. The course begins with a “parents only” night where curriculum and materials are discussed and any questions are answered. Following Parents’ Night, the class continues with weekly parent-child sessions for four more weeks. One parent accompanies the child to each class.
Reproductive body parts and purposes, puberty, pregnancy, childbirth and sexually-transmitted diseases are discussed. Decision-making skills are emphasized. Videos, games and other interactive activities help make the classes fun and interesting.
The girls class will be held Tuesdays, Jan. 17- Feb. 14 from 7 to 9 p.m. The cost is $50 per family.Registrations must be received one week prior to the first night of class. For more information or to register, visit www.ldchealth.org or call (785) 843-3060.
Kids Need to Know logo by ldchealth
