Our Whole Lives

Our Whole Lives

Our Whole Lives (also referred to as OWL) is a series of sexuality education curricula for six age
groups: grades K-1, grades 4-6, grades 7-9, grades 10-12, young adults ages 18-35, and adults.
Jointly developed by the Unitarian Universalist Association and the United Church of Christ, the courses help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior by equipping them with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas:

Human Development
Relationships
Personal Skills
Sexual Behavior
Sexual Health
Society and Culture

Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives provides not only facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants to clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

Although developed by two religious organizations, Our Whole Lives contains no religious references or doctrine. It is appropriate for participants of any religious background. However, religious references are provided in an optional Unitarian Universalist and United Church of Christ companion publication, Sexuality and Our Faith.

The following FAQ will provide answers to several questions you may have:

Is this one of those abstinence-only church based programs?
No. This program definitely encourages abstinence with regard to sexual activity for teens, but OWL is a comprehensive sexuality education program.
Participants will also be learning about vital topics such as relationships, birth control, and how to avoid contracting diseases such as HIV.

Woven within this curriculum is how sexuality is expressed in our culture. Participants will learn how the media affects their feelings about their own
bodies. Social issues relating to gay and lesbian concerns will be addressed. How sex and power can become linked in relationships is another important
topic. They will be discussing in a mature way how to relate to the opposite sex as they grow<br>
and change.

How can I be sure that I'm comfortable with your curriculum?
The values taught through this program are:

Self Worth
Sexual Health
Responsibility
Justice and Inclusivity

These are tricky topics and we agree that parents are the most important source of values and information for their children. That is why we require that you meet with us and review the curriculum before enrolling your child.

What is offered at each level of the program?

Up-to-date information and honest, age-appropriate answers to questions

Activities to help clarify values and improve decision-making skills

Effective group-building to create a safe and supportive peer group

Education about sexual abuse, exploitation, and harassment

Opportunities to critique media messages about gender and sexuality

Acceptance of diversity

Encouragement to act for justice

A well designed, teacher-friendly leaders’ guide

Orientation that affirm parents as their children’s primary sexuality educators

Is there any cost involved?
There is no charge for this class. The University Unitarian Universalist Society considers this program to be an important gift that we give to the community.
What kind of time commitment would my family be making?
We ask that participants attend every class, if possible. Parents who wish to stay during class will be provided a place in the church to read or visit with other parents.
When does the next course begin?
A class for youth in grades 7 – 9 is scheduled to begin February 15. A mandatory parents meeting is scheduled January 18th at 3pm.
What if I have additional questions?
For more information, feel free to call us at (407) 737-4018 or email us at info@universityuus.org