Originally published in TEACH Magazine, November/December 2015 Issue
By Martha Beach
For the first time in almost 20 years, Ontario’s health curriculum has received a major overhaul. Although some parent and religious groups have mounted protests, Ontario’s new curriculum is a rounded program that looks at all aspects of health including sex, physical wellness, and mental health. Except for a couple of provinces and territories that are lagging behind, we are all on the same page.
This is great news for Canadian youth. Good health education is the foundation of a healthy society. Students who learn how to communicate within relationships, respect themselves and others, and make healthy choices become healthy adults. Programs are available to support educators as they share this toolkit for life. Health education, whether mandatory curriculum or supportive programs, is an essential part of student development.
Martha Beach lives and works in Toronto as a freelance fact-checker, editor, and writer for a wide variety of publications. When she’s not working, you’ll find Martha on her yoga mat or hanging out with her daughter and husband.
