The following presentations were developed by the Comprehensive Health Promotion, Public Health Nurses to support secondary school educators teaching special education programs. The PowerPoint presentations help explore the topics of human development, sexuality, and substance use (with a focus on vaping). It is recommended to use these presentations in the following order; however, they may be used individually:
What is included with the presentations?
Each presentation contains PowerPoint slides and speaking notes. Information in the speaking notes is to help guide the educator with the specific discussion. Some slides will contain “Additional Information” in the speaking notes to further the understanding of the topic and are not necessary to use with the presentation. Please use the speaking notes at your discretion, keeping in mind the appropriateness for your class.
A note about tailoring language to your learning environment
It is important to be mindful of 2SLGBTQIA+ students and the language used while teaching. Talking about anatomy, physiology, and sexual development in terms of people, parts and processes is more accurate than talking about it in terms of assigned sex (female and male) or gender identity (girl and boy), however, some students may find this language confusing and will benefit from using gendered terms more e.g., “When a girl gets her period, she may choose to use period underwear.” It’s important for students to understand what may happen to them during human development, and saying “People who get periods” may be too abstract and confusing. Multiple terms can be used together when explaining concepts e.g., “When a person first gets their period, it may be irregular. Not all girls have a regular period at first,” (Teaching Sexual Health, 2024).
Educators have a unique understanding of their students’ backgrounds, experiences and personal learning styles. This insight enables them to tailor language and terminology to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment. By using language that resonates with their students, educators can foster engagement and promote better comprehension.
Additional resources to help support teachings include:
- Teaching Sexual Health: Differing Abilities (Calgary Health Region, 2024)
- Sexuality and Developmental Disability: A Guide for Parents (Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, 2024)
- Canadian Guidelines for Sexual Health Promotion with Disabled Youth (Sex Information & Education Council of Canada, 2024)
- Canadian Guidelines for Sexual Health Promotion with Autistic Youth (Sex Information & Education Council of Canada, 2024)
For additional information or support, please call the Comprehensive Health Promotion Hotline at 519-258-2146, ext. 1555, or email chp@wechu.org