This week I signed a permission slip for Ashley to go to the puberty talk in school. She is in the 5th grade. She also went last year. Parents are invited to attend as well. Last year she went as well. When I asked her if she’d like me to go, she turned more of a red color and declined. It was her first time and she was a little nervous. This year she is okay with me attending with her.

Personally, I think this is a great program. I went to it in the 4th grade and learned a lot. It was an excellent source of information even though we spent a lot of time giggling. I was scared and nervous when I first started puberty. This class had made it a little less scary. Ashley has also learned a great deal more. We have been very open about puberty and her changing body for awhile. It is very important to me to have this open dialogue with my girls. This class is just one more source of information for her to turn to and it has helped a lot!

Even though it would be ideal for all parents to be comfortable talking to their children about puberty, that is not the case. That means that these kids need someone to talk to them about it. They deserve the facts and not what other kids tell might tell them. This class gives them the opportunity to get these facts. It might also be easier for parents to have that door opened enough to get into a deeper discussion with their kids. It’s also a great way to lead into other delicate topics such as sex and your expectations.

I know not all parents feel comfortable with their children attending this class. I completely understand! It might be something you want to discuss at home and don’t feel it’s appropriate for school. This is what has me asking these questions:

What do you think about these classes being offered to our 4th-6th grade children? Would you or have you let your children attend? Have you attended with your children?