Hanover Middle School Grade 5 Growth and Development 5/11/23
We have finalized a date for the 5th grade growth and development assemblies. Students will attend one session in place of their regular Exploratory Specialist period on the morning of Thursday, May 25th.
Grade 5 Growth and Development
Introduction Unit for all 5th grade students (regardless of which term they attend health class)
- More about changes most girls go through: presented by Shelly Ireland, HMS Health, and Suzanne Clasby, HMS PE, or
- More about changes most boys go through: presented by Pete Arena, HMS Physical Education
To watch the video content or allow your child to preview it ahead of time, please click on the link below for “Always Changing - Boys” or “Always Changing - Girls” videos:
Term 1 and term 2 students have already learned basic form and function of the body systems in their regular health classes, including the reproductive system and basic physical and psychological changes of puberty, using the video clip below. Term 3 students will cover this material in class this week.
Always Changing and Growing Up- Co-Ed Puberty Education
Learning the basics of reproductive anatomy and changes during puberty helps to teach medically accurate knowledge and vocabulary, normalize a variety of changes, remove stigma or mystery surrounding the bodies and changes of others, and increase empathy and respect shown for others. Encouragement to talk with a trusted adult helps to open conversations and reassure students that Health class is just one part of their support network as they navigate adolescence.
All slides and speaker notes can be previewed at the link provided previously: HMS Grade 5 Growth and Development.
As a reminder, parents/guardians have the legal right to opt children out of content primarily involving reproduction/sexuality. Any opt-out requests should be emailed (preferably at least one week in advance). Emails may be addressed to Ms. Ireland and Mr. Birolini jointly. Please contact me for more information about this or any other HMS Health questions, concerns, or feedback.
It is a privilege to work with you to help our students navigate "the wonder years."
Shelly Ireland
Hanover Middle School Wellness
mireland@hanoverschools.org