Another school year is winding down, which means the Calgary Sexual Health Centre’s (CSHC) school based sex education program is about to wrap it up until classes start again in the fall. With the summer break around the corner, CSHC wants to catch up with parents to ensure that sexual health learning doesn’t also take a break. CSHC, which has been a recommended resource of the Calgary Board of Education since 1975, is asking parents “Are you ready to handle your kids’ questions about sex this summer?”
“We are in junior high and high schools across the city and surrounding areas all school year long talking with students about comprehensive issues like sexual health, healthy relationships, consent, media literacy and inclusiveness,” said Pam Krause, Executive Director at the CSHC. “We reached over 10,000 students this year, and we don’t want their parents to be left out of the conversation.”
For over 42 years, the CSHC has been providing programs and services to ensure that individuals have the tools they need to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Today we are the only non-profit organization in Calgary delivering an array of aligned programs and services that address sexual health issues in a comprehensive way.
“We are proud to provide a wide range of programming specifically aimed at engaging parents and families across all communities in Calgary,” Krause continued. “For example, we partner with organizations in the city to bring workshops to parents, and we even bring parent education directly to your living rooms with our “Host a Parent Night” events.”
“But we are really excited about our upcoming Parents’ Night Out event on June 10th which will be a fun night of great tips for parents from an incredibly acclaimed expert in the field.”
The “Parents’ Night Out” event on will feature acclaimed author and speaker Debra Haffner. She has written two award winning books for parents: From Diapers to Dating: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Sexually Healthy Children, Beyond the Big Talk: Every Parent’s Guide to Raising Sexually Healthy Teens, and What Every 21st Century Parent Needs to Know: Facing Today’s Challenges with Wisdom and Heart. She has also appeared on TV shows such as Oprah, 20/20, and the Today Show.
“Whether you have a toddler or a teen, Debra Haffner will amuse and enlighten our guests with her entertaining presentation on the sometimes difficult terrain of talking to our kids about sexuality,” Krause said. “Its an incredible opportunity. She has spoken with thousands of parents, and will provide us with useful tips and advice on having the conversations, answering the tough questions and teaching our kids how to be in healthy and respectful relationships.”
“A date night for parents, or a night out for parenting friends, learning how to have the talk with our kids has never been so much fun!,” Krause concluded.
In support of CSHC’s parent program, event guests will be invited to enjoy tempting appetizers and a silent auction. Click here for more info or to get tickets online!