1. Introduction

As this lesson is the first of the course on sexual and reproductive health, the students will start with getting to know each other, as well as getting to know you, the teacher. The students will find out what they can learn and do in the different lessons of The World Starts With Me (WSWM). Also, the students will be asked to share their expectations about the course.

In this lesson students will learn about their emotional ups and downs in puberty and explore their own and others’ good qualities as well. They will get some self-awareness and discover their self-esteem growing in relationship to others, through positive feedback and respect for diversity. Students will be encouraged to love themselves as they are. The main activities in this lesson stimulate them to reflect on their own personality and to be proud of themselves.

Before you start, let students have a look at the ground rules, define them and invite students to share their expectations for this course.

2. Key Messages

1. In puberty you go through a lot of changes: in your thinking and emotions, in your relationships with people and in your body.
2. Growing up means growing independent and that may cause conflicts with the people around you. They have to get used to you changing too and to the new YOU.
3. If you feel down or lonely, accept your feelings and share them. Look for support. And support others too.
4. Everyone is unique in their own way, so are you!
5. You should be proud of yourself and of the qualities you have. We call that self-esteem.
6. As we grow up we become more self-aware and concerned what others think. Remember:
   - We are all different and have different qualities
   - When you notice someone’s qualities – tell them!
   

3. Lesson Aims

1. Students know why they are in class and feel welcome.
2. Students focus attention on themselves and on their own unique personalities and values and gain self-esteem and a positive self-image, learn about the importance of a healthy self-esteem and how this develops in relationship with others.
3. Students feel proud of their unique talents and qualities.
4. Students will learn about and accept emotional and relational changes which are taking place during puberty.
5. Students learn that everyone has the right to have their own opinions and that, contrary to facts, opinions are never right or wrong.
6. Students learn that while growing up, they gradually become more independent and autonomous, which goes hand in hand with learning to take more responsibilities and making their own decisions (about their sexuality, relations, future, et cetera).

4. Main Topics

The most important concepts being discussed in this lesson are:

1. Puberty and adolescence
2. Emotions
3. Self-awareness and self-esteem
4. Support
5. Autonomy

Please find a detailed description of these, and a lot of other concepts, in the glossary.