Edgewood offers Our Whole Lives: A Comprehensive Sexuality Program which typically begins in January. Our Whole Lives is an affirming, age-appropriate sexuality program written by the United Church of Christ and Unitarian Universalists. Edgewood offers OWL for grades K-1st, 4th-6th, and 9th-12th. Participants must pre-register for the class, have parental/guardian approval, and attend an orientation with their parents/guardians.
Our Whole Lives helps participants make responsible decisions about their relationships, health, and behavior in the context of their values. It equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. It provides not only facts about anatomy and human development, but helps children and youth to clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the social, emotional, and spiritual aspects of sexuality.
How long are the programs?
K-01: 8 sessions, 1 hour each
Parent meeting: 1.5 hours, Parent/Child Orientation: 2.5 hours
Grades 4-6: 10 sessions; 75-minutes each
Program Information meeting: 1.5 hours, Parent/Child Orientation: 2.5 hours
Grades 9-12: 14 sessions, 2 hours each
Parent Orientation: 1 session, 2 hours total
My child has to miss some of the classes. Is that okay?
Consistent attendance is required. We understand that “life happens,” but the goal is for participants to attend all or almost all class sessions. We find that when students are absent, it disrupts the group dynamics and is challenging to catch up when they return.
Do you have to be a member of Edgewood to participate?
No. Our Whole Lives is open to the public. Most of the content is secular, but we do incorporate prayer, scripture, litany, and song to support the lessons. We have had children and youth from different religious backgrounds, and no religious background, participate but it is important for them to know that this is in a religious setting.
If you are interested in hearing more about Our Whole Lives or signing up for a future session, please fill out the form below.