Abstinence Instructor Tells All
Sexual Risk Avoidance in the Classroom by Vicki Baur, Abstinence Instructor
My first year anniversary as a volunteer with First Choice is this month! It has been an amazing year working with amazing people. I have learned so much and continue to do so. One of my roles at the center is to teach abstinence classes. The curriculums’ official title is Creating Positive Relationships, commonly referred to as CPR, it is a great program! The training for CPR Instructors is top notch, and students really love the class! I honestly wish I had been able to take a class like this when I was in school. It is a relevant and much needed program, and I really believe it is helping our youth.What you might not know is that it isn't just for children in public schools. Kids, no matter what their background need the information provided in this course. The sad fact is that parents from all walks of life simply aren’t talking to their kids about these important life issues. This is why First Choice has been working to expand the reach of CPR to private schools, youth organizations and church youth groups.Kids these days know the mechanics of sex, and in most cases, what to do to prevent a pregnancy, but are completely clueless to the emotional and physical maturity that goes along with being sexually active - not to mention what happens when there are multiple partners and a STD/STI comes along.My experience has been very enlightening to be sure. Kids were pretty quiet the first day or so, but then they really get into it. We have a bag/container that kids can put questions or comments into anonymously; these are the questions they won't ask publicly but can with this process. We have everyone write either a comment or question, that way no one knows who wrote what, so they feel safer.Of course you are thrilled when you read ones like this: “Thanks for coming, I now know there is a better way, I am going to stop having sex for now.”I love the fact that this class stresses positive relationships, which encompasses all areas of life. It encourages young people to examine how they treat everyone around them and that can impact them for a life time. CPR is designed to help young people make good, empowered decisions!
