Navigating Puberty: OP’s What You Wish You Learned in Health Class Group
Growing up, changing bodies, relationships and dating… all of these topics and more are covered in OP’s What You Wish You Learned in Health Class group, beginning Jan. 21. (Learn how your girl can register today.) Girls often find themselves with questions about topics that can feel awkward or embarrassing to talk about in class or even with a parent. Adolescence can feel vulnerable, confusing, and hard to navigate—especially with the added complication of the internet and all the conflicting information girls may encounter. It’s also an important and exciting time of self-discovery, where girls are exploring dating and relationships, identity, and sexuality. Often these topics dominate girls’ conversations and the media they consume.
We know that they need a safe, supportive, and honest space to talk with their peers and informed, non-judgmental adults so they can make good decisions, including about their health and sexuality. In addition to positive and safe conversations with family members, girls thrive when they can talk openly with peers and normalize their experiences and questions.
How do we know it works? Here’s what girls have to say about the group:
What are you coming away from this group with?
“A better understanding of both my body and what healthy communication looks like.”
“More knowledge about myself and communication.”
“I feel like what I knew before is now confirmed as fact and other things I was wondering about have been answered.”
“Friends and more resources about healthy sex and relationships.”
My body is (How would you describe your body?)
“Mine.”
“Doing her best.”
“A tool that carries me.”
“Unique.”
“Normal.”
“Amazing.”
“Fully Mine.”
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
“Yes! It was a great experience. :)”
What You Wish You Learned in Health Class was designed to meet the needs of girls 14-18 (13 with parental permission) by providing a friendly, confidential, and informationally accurate group covering topics like anatomy and health, healthy relationships, sexual orientation, consent and boundaries, and more. OP has held this special group for girls in our community for many years and we’re happy to be able to offer it again this year online, facilitated by OP staff.