Enrollment is open for the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department’s fall “Kids Need to Know” Family-Based Sexuality Education Courses.
The classes, which meet for two hours once a week for five weeks, assist parents of children in fifth, sixth and seventh grades in their efforts to be the primary sexuality educators for their children. A parent attends each class with the child.
"We prepare our kids for lots of things they will need to know in life. I can’t think of many things more important than making wise decisions about sexual activity. I also can’t think of better resources than parents," said Sue McDaneld, Family Planning nurse practitioner. “Sometimes, parents need a little help to be sure their child gets accurate information, and that’s where we can help.”
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 course begins with a parents-only night, where curriculum and materials are discussed and any questions are answered.
The courses then continue with weekly parent-child sessions for four more weeks.
The Health Department is accepting enrollment for two classes:
• Girls class — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays, Oct. 6-Nov. 3, Community Health Facility, 200 Maine St., second floor meeting room.
• Boys class — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 8-Nov. 5, Community Health Facility, 200 Maine St., second floor meeting room.
The cost is $50 per family. There is a minimum enrollment of 12 families and a maximum enrollment of 15 families. Registration must be received one week before classes begin.