"As they [children and young people] grow older they should receive a positive and prudent education in matters relating to sex." Declaration on Christian Education, 1965, #1

"In 1968 we affirmed the 'value and necessity of wisely planned education of children in human sexuality' and acknowledge our 'grave obligation' to assist parents, who are 'primarily responsible for imparting to their children an awareness of the sacredness of sexuality' (Human Life in Our Day, 61). We continue to regard this as an important priority in Christian education, met in part through diocesan-approved family life education in Catholic schools and other instructional programs." To Teach as Jesus Did, 1972, #56

"These efforts [education of children in human sexuality] presuppose parental understanding and approval...The aim is not to supplant parents but to help them fulfill their obligation. They have a right to be informed about the content of such programs and to be assured that diocesan-approved textbooks and other instructional materials meet the requirements of propriety. But when these reasonable conditions have been met, parents should not allow continuing anxiety to be translated into indiscriminate opposition to all forms of classroom education in sexuality. Such opposition would be contrary to the teaching of Vatican Council II and the pastoral policy of the American bishops. Also, to the extent that it might disrupt responsible efforts to provide formal education in sexuality for the young, it would violate the rights of other, no less conscientious, parents who ask for such instruction for their own children." To Teach as Jesus Did, 1972, #57

"The child's need for and right to adequate knowledge and guidance [in the area of human sexuality], adapted to his age and individual maturity, are the paramount considerations. In all programs proper emphasis must be given to the spiritual and moral dimensions of sexuality. The child's reverence for the God-given dignity and beauty of sex is an effective safeguard of purity; it should be cultivated from the earliest years." To Teach as Jesus Did, 1972, #58

"Many experiences have some potential bearing, positive or negative, upon education in sexuality; and virtually all catechists and educators have at least some potential responsibility in this regard, whether or not they ever deal directly with the matter." Sharing the Light of Faith, 1979, #191

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