April 21, 2011

SIECUS {featured resource}

The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) is the largest clearinghouse on sexuality information and a recognized leader in the field of sexuality and sexuality education. SIECUS was founded in 1964 by Dr. Mary S. Calderone, who during her previous tenure as the Medical Director for the Planned Parenthood Federation became concerned with the lack of accurate information about sexuality for both young people and adults in the United States.

SIECUS publishes numerous books, journals, and resources for parents, professionals, and the public, which are available at no cost online, from numerous accessible fact sheets to educator, policy, and research resources. Available as free downloads or for purchase as hard copies, its booklets include: "Right from the Start: Guidelines for Sexuality Issues, Birth to Five Years," a framework to help childcare centers and preschools address age appropriate sexuality issues, and also of value to parents before discussing with their children's teachers their approach to sexuality issues; "Guidelines for Comprehensive Sexuality Education: Kindergarten-12th Grade," a handbook for  parents, caregivers, educators, policymakers, and activists; "Innovative Approaches to Increase Parent-Child Communication about Sexuality," also a guide for parents, caregivers, educators, policymakers, and public agencies; and "Talk About Sex," which provides young people with basic information about a range of sexuality topics, as well as referrals to reputable websites for more information.

In the 1990s, SIECUS expanded its outreach to policymakers and communities by opening a public policy office in Washington DC; developing a community advocacy project to help fight attacks on sexuality related issues; creating a media outreach initiative to ensure that sexuality related issues are accurately represented in the media; and by establishing an international program.

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