As children grow, they continue to receive messages about appropriate behaviors and values as they develop relationships within their family and the social environment. It is important, however, that the process of sexual learning within the family be supplemented by planned learning opportunities in churches and synagogues, community and youth agencies, and schools. School-based sexuality education programs conducted by specially trained educators can add an important dimension to children's ongoing sexual learning. Programs must be carefully planned by each community in order to respect the diversity of values and beliefs present in a classroom. Recent polls indicate that most young people look to their parents as their most important source of information about sexuality.
Friends are the second most important source, school courses rank third, and television is fourth.
More than two-thirds of young people have talked to their parents about sexuality. In numerous studies, most parents report that they are uncomfortable discussing such explicit sexual issues as intercourse, masturbation, homosexuality and orgasm with their children, and welcome assistance from more formal programs. The primary goal of sexuality education is the promotion of sexual health. Sexuality education seeks to assist young people in understanding a positive view of sexuality, provide them with information and skills about taking care of their sexual health, and help them acquire skills to make decisions now and in the future. The National Guidelines Task Force, composed of representatives from 15 national organizations, schools and universities, has identified six key concepts that should be part of any comprehensive sexuality education program.