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applescruff Sex education classes in late elementary school typically provide students with information related to the biology of the reproductive system. The focus of these classes is on preparing children for somatic changes related to puberty (e.g., breast and genital development, menarche). Many practitioners feel, however, that a biological focus leaves children in middle childhood ill-prepared to deal with increased feelings of sexual arousal as well as opportunities to act on these feelings. Researchers who study the effective elements of successful comprehensive sexuality education programs find that they begin in late middle childhood (e.g., grades 5 and 6), and in addition to providing information on the biology of puberty these programs:
- Promote parental involvement and communication with regard to information, values, and beliefs that stress the effectiveness of abstinence.
- Provide support for increased parental monitoring and supervision.
- Teach children strategies for refusing sexual advances.
- Encourage assertiveness and teach social-problem solving skills.
- Focus on reducing the amount of time spent in situations of sexual possibility and delay sexual debut.
- Are sensitive to the cultural needs of the community.
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