Human Reproduction & Embryology Parent Information
To answer your questions about our Human Reproduction & Embryology (Life Begins) Program, we have a number of resources below.
Watch the FAQ Video
This short video which may answer some of your questions about what your student will be learning in this program:
Looking for More Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Program topics include: a review of the physical and emotional changes that happen during puberty, including changes and the reproductive systems, such as the menstrual cycle, erection and ejaculation, fertilization, embryology and the process of labor.
No real pictures of reproductive organs are shown during the program. When the educator talks about the body, they use anatomical drawings of the human body. During the embryology section, there are real pictures shown of fertilization (when a sperm cell meets an egg cell) and development of the fetus. The video in Human Reproduction and Embryology is an animation that shows how a sperm cell meets an egg cell (no sexual intercourse is shown in this animation). The video begins with the sperm cells swimming through the vagina.
Educators will talk through how a sperm meets an egg, explaining that the penis becomes erect, enters the vagina and semen is released through a process called sexual intercourse. For additional information about sexual intercourse, students are directed to ask their trusted adults at home. When intercourse is discussed, anatomical drawings of the human body are used. No real pictures or drawings of sexual intercourse are used in this program.
No, abortion is not covered in this program. If a student asks for a definition of abortion, the educator will provide a scientific answer. For additional information about abortion, students are directed to ask their trusted adults at home.
Yes, miscarriage is defined in the program as happening early in a pregnancy and that when it occurs, it is no one’s fault. Also it is explained that It is common for this to be emotionally difficult time for the people involved.
No, birth control is not covered in this program. If a student asks for a definition of birth control, the educator will provide a scientific definition. For additional information about birth control, students are directed to ask their trusted adults at home.
We recommend all students are together.
Yes, assisted technology and in vitro fertilization are also presented.
No. Candor Health Education educators discuss scientific facts and use medical terminology throughout the program. Educators do not discuss moral issues, leaving that choice to the child’s trusted adults at home. Students will often have questions after the program and you want to be an askable parent, despite your discomfort. Here are a few things to keep in mind: it is okay not to know all of the answers, consider asking clarification questions so you are sure what they are asking, take a deep breath and do your best to calmly answer, and use medical terminology if you can. This needs to be an ongoing conversation. As your child grows older, they will continue to have questions.
A recorded parent program overview is included. Please contact your school administrator for the link to this recorded webinar, which reviews the content that is included in the school program.