Episcopate again calls on parents to boycott health education

"You must not agree to the systemic depravity of your children, which is to be carried out under the pretext of so-called health education," the bishops, affiliated with the Presidium of the Polish Bishops' Conference, wrote in a letter to parents. The document was published in May, but now - just before the start of the school year - the hierarchs have reminded the public about it on social media, appealing not to allow children to participate in the classes. The Medxpress editorial board has received reports that priests have been taking action against health education during Sunday masses in recent weeks. - I am wondering whether to let my daughter go to these classes," the mother of an eighth-grader tells us. She adds that she doesn't know what to do, because she is from a small town where people count on the opinion of the priest. - It may turn out that only 3-4 people will sign up for the classes. I suppose, too, that teachers, who are few and burdened, will be persuaded to make children give up the extra subject," she says.

Meanwhile, health education - as described by the Ministry of Education - is supposed to be a modern subject based on sound knowledge and practical skills. From September - as an optional subject - it will enter primary and secondary schools. Its goal is not only to expand medical and biological knowledge, but also to develop social and emotional skills.

The MEN stresses that health education teaches informed decision-making, promotes healthy lifestyles and develops soft skills such as empathy, communication and concern for others. It is meant to prepare children and young people to cope with the challenges of modern times - from infectious diseases and addictions to digital threats and misinformation. Materials for parents and teachers, including sample curricula and textbooks, are now available on the websites of the Ministry of Education and the Education Development Center. The medical community has long pushed for health education. The medical self-government, doctors, school principals, as well as parents and public health specialists have stressed that Poland urgently needs systemic preventive measures. The list of challenges is long: diseases of civilization, growing childhood obesity, mental disorders, low pro-health awareness, and declining vaccination rates.

Source: X