Under the guise of catechism, family life and development of virtues, several publishers of Catholic materials have marketed sex education programs. Most of these programs have received an imprimatur. Educators have introduced these programs into parochial schools and catechism programs. With advertisements being placed in home schooling journals and material lists, the market has now extended to home schooling.

The intent of this article is not to re-state the position of the Holy See on sex education. Nor do I intend to review specific programs. The intent of this article is threefold. First, I hope to inform our readers of specific issues relevant to development of sexuality. Secondly, using this information, I will offer suggestions on how to evaluate proposed classroom sex education programs. Finally, I will offer suggestions on addressing contentions that may arise—or already have arisen.

To properly understand human sexuality, any discussion must be placed within the context of salvation history, the nature of man and developmental psychology. Interdependent on free-will and the use of reason, human sexuality represents our humanity. It is a gift from God that distinguishes us from other animals. It is beautiful. Like all gifts from God and things of beauty, the development and use of human sexuality demands responsibility and faith.

When Adam and Eve sinned, they realized they were naked. Before their sin, they were clothed with the glory of God. Their naked bodies were not shameful, because they did not know they were naked. When they saw each other, they saw the glory of God; they saw His image and likeness. Having lost the glory of God through sin, they saw not God but themselves.

To restore us to grace, Christ became incarnate in the womb of Mary. He was born, taking upon Himself our human nature. Sinless He died. Glorious He rose. By His death and resurrection, we are restored to the grace of God and His glory. The faithful will not realize the full glory until the resurrection from the dead, when their bodies will rise, receive their souls again and be fully clothed with the grace and glory of God. They will be clothed in light.

Human nature has the gift of time. God, as he does with the angels, does not bestow upon us the fullness of our nature at once. In time, we develop and grow. When we make mistakes, we have the time to take responsibility for them and make amends. In short, it pertains to human nature to grow and develop, to mature gradually. In order to fully utilize the salvation offered by God, He admonishes us: "Do not conform yourself to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect (Rom.12:2)."

Because of the unique, interdependent mingling of genetics, environment and maturation, people develop at differing rates. No two people are the same.

Like all human development, sexuality unfolds at differing rates among our children. Different children understand sexuality issues in different ways. Most important, the ability to understand sexuality does not necessarily come with the development of the physical attributes associated with sex. Because of the sensitive nature of the topic and the serious consequences of improper formation, the development and formation of sexuality must be cultivated by those who best know the child. That is, those who best know the unique identity—including the cognitive, physical and spiritual development—of the child. It is essential that such formation must be completed by those who have the responsibility for providing a proper environment within which the child can mature and grow in grace. By Divine Will, these are none other than the parents themselves.

Before offering a method to evaluate proposed classroom sex education programs, I must emphasize that the best program is one entirely contained within the home. As stated by the Holy See, "The normal and fundamental method, already proposed in this guide, is personal dialog between parents and their children, that is, individual formation within the family circle (The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality, Pontifical Council for the Family, 129)." Such formation and education need no supplement in any classroom, especially one claiming to be Catholic, or indeed any place outside the home. It also goes without saying that it is the right of the parents to decide whether they need assistance in providing this individual formation within the family circle.

Parents are the primary educators of their children. All other educators obtain their authority to teach from the child’s parents. With this in mind, I offer eight questions to raise when evaluating any sex education program. First and most important, is the program parent-based? That is, does the program require collaboration with the parents of each child and respect their mind on the matter? Parents know their children better than anyone else. They know the unique nature and cultural context within which the child develops. They have a serious obligation to provide for the proper raising of the child. Their desires in regard to the development of their child’s sexuality must be respected.

Second, is the program optional? No one should be forced to participate in any sex education program against his or her will. This is a right of natural law and cannot be dispensed. Most within the public sector know this well. Unfortunately, within many Catholic schools, sex education programs are often linked with catechism programs. Students are not allowed to opt out. Without question, this is wrong.

Fourth, are specific anatomy and the sex act discussed? One can be assured that if a program is entitled "sex education," anatomy and sex acts will be discussed. Within many "Catholic" programs, the emphasis is placed on the "development of human sexuality," "family life" or "education in the virtues."

Don’t let these phrases fool you. Review the content of the material. Many of these programs discuss specific human anatomy as early as the third grade—some earlier. One particular program teaches fifth grade children how to have sex, with an option to introduce this material in the fourth grade. They soften this information by combining it with material about God or loving one another. Don’t be seduced into thinking that this is a proper approach. Providing information about anatomy and sexual matters alongside information about God and prayer within a Christian environment is not development of virtues. It is simply education about sex, God and prayers.

Fifth, does the program introduce information about contraception and sterilization? Most programs target kindergarten through eighth grade. These children do not need to know about contraception and sterilization. Information about these evils requires explanation about body parts and their functions. Further, it desensitizes the children to the use of contraceptives and sterilization. Providing such information to children at this early age is scandalous.

Sixth, does the program use values clarification methods when discussing morality? In values clarification, objective, moral evils are downplayed. The focus becomes what the individual child feels or believes is moral based on his or her own personal experiences. The entire objective teaching authority of the Church in regard to faith and morals becomes questionable when values clarification is encouraged.

Seventh, does the material include teacher or parent resources that do not conform to Catholic doctrine or discipline? One particular program that bears an imprimatur lists teacher resources written by pro-choice and homosexual activists.

Finally, in overall perspective, does the material and presentation style of the teacher respect your child’s developmental stage? Even if no anatomy or sex act discussions take place, certain subject matter is best left to older ages. You, the parent, know best.

As a parent, you have the right to review the materials and methods used to educate your child. You have the right to opt your child out of any program not in conformity with your conscience. Do not be intimidated or beguiled into believing that you do not know what is best for your child. Violations of these rights should not be accepted in good faith.

In short, a program devoted to a true formation in the virtues must be placed within the context of salvation history. As such, the central focus is love for God above all else, and love for neighbor as an expression of love for Him. There is no need for discussions about sex, anatomy, contraception or sterilization. That should be left to the parents.

There are many resources available for parents who wish to evaluate a particular program in their school or parish. First and foremost, I encourage parents to obtain and read the document, "The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality," published by the Pontifical Council on the Family. This document provides an excellent synthesis of the Church’s position on sex education and formation in the virtues. Furthermore, this document includes numerous references and strong recommendations for parents and educators.

If you find yourself in disagreement with educators over sex education, I recommend four courses of action.

First, pray continually. Beg God to grant you and everyone involved His Wisdom and His Will. Pray for the conversion of hearts and a congenial solution.

Second, inform yourself. Start by reading the document noted above. Familiarize yourself with other resources as referenced in the document, particularly those from the Catechism and the Code of Canon Law. Review the controversial material in light of these resources carefully and prayerfully so you can then make an informed decision about how appropriate the program is for your child.

Third, associate yourself with other people of like mind. There is strength in numbers. If necessary, seek the assistance of professionals—psychologists, theologians, canon lawyers—who share your mind on the matter. As you are well aware, the St. Joseph Foundation is always ready to assist in the vindication of rights.

Finally, never act rashly; remain patient. Do not forget that you are deciding for the good of your children and the future of our Church. When a difficult contention arises, the atmosphere becomes confusing and emotions can take their toll on our minds. When authorities stall or provide less than professional responses, there is a tendency to make rash decisions and acts. This can endanger the chances of a mutually, agreeable solution. Ultimately, our children will suffer.