Sexuality, and expression of one’s sexuality, is an important part of each person’s identity. Achieving healthy sexuality and learning about this aspect of ourselves begins at birth and continues throughout our lives. This important and multidimensional concept involves anatomy, physiology, and growth and development, including self-esteem, body image, self-care, communication, values, an understanding of satisfying and healthy
relationships, decision-making, sexual intimacy, responsibilities of parenthood, and a host of other relevant topics. Although parents are the primary sexuality educators of their children, children also receive messages about various aspects of sexuality from many other sources, including family members, friends, peers, schools, media, faith communities, and other institutions. Schools can be important partners with parents to provide children and adolescents with accurate and developmentally-appropriate sexuality education or human growth and development (HGD) instruction. The purpose of school-based sexuality education is to support children in gaining a positive view of sexuality and providing them with developmentally-appropriate knowledge and skills to make decisions now and in the future (National Sexuality Guidelines Task Force, 1991).  Ideally, this instruction will enhance communication between parents or guardians and their children about this important topic.

Human Growth and Development: A Resource Packet (4th Edition) 2005

Human Growth & Development - Relationships

Human Growth & Development - Contraceptives

Human Growth & Development - Pregnancy

8th Grade Health Power Standards