OWL

Our Whole Lives (OWL)

OWL helps participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. 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. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, OWL not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

UUC offers OWL classes for grades K-1, 4-5 and 8-9, as well as OWL for Adults.

OWL Schedule:

Winter 2017: OWL K-1 and 4-5 OWL

Fall 2017: Adult OWL

Winter 2018: OWL 8-9

K-1 OWL

Supports parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, the 8 sessions engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. K-1 OWL promotes dialogue between parent and child for a healthy start to sexuality education. Classes will be held January—April 2017.

4-5 OWL

This 8-session program will teach children about the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Participants will read It's Perfectly Normal by Robie H. Harris, and examine topics such as values and sexuality, communication and decision making. Each class includes a HomeLink - a homework activity for parents and children to complete together. A short-term covenant group will also be offered for parents of children enrolled in 4-5 OWL to allow parents to discuss issues raising a child nearing puberty. Classes will be held January—April 2017.

8-9 OWL

The program for youth in grades 8-9 models and teaches caring, compassion, respect, and justice. This holistic program moves beyond the intellect to address the attitudes, values, and feelings that youth have about themselves and the world. Unlike many other sexuality curricula currently available, this program is comprehensive and progressive. In an inclusive and developmentally appropriate manner, it addresses sensitive topics that are typically excluded. Classes will be held January—April 2018.

Adult OWL

Participants must be age 18 or older. Using values, communication skills and spirituality as starting points, this program explores sexuality issues for adults of all ages. Adult OWL builds an understanding of healthy sexual relationships, affirms diversity and helps participants accept and affirm their own sexuality throughout their lives. Adult OWL will be held September 2017—April 2018.

A commitment to attend all classes is required to participate in any OWL program.

Learn more about Our Whole Lives on the UUA website.