In today’s fast-paced world, teaching health education to middle school students is of utmost importance. At this age, children are going through an array of mental and physical changes and need guidance on how to keep themselves healthy. Educating them about health not only helps them make informed choices but also promotes healthy behaviors and habits that they can carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Most schools now include health education in their curriculum, and for good reason. The importance of teaching health in 7th grade cannot be overstated. It is at this age that students are going through puberty and are developing adult-like habits. The habits they develop, both good and bad, will likely set the tone for their future health.
In this article, we will review some of the best health books for middle school students that can help you teach your students about various aspects of health and promote healthy behaviors.
1. The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Girls by Valorie Schaefer
This book is specifically designed for young girls going through puberty. It talks about various changes that girls go through like menstrual cycles, breast development, and personal hygiene. It also covers important topics like emotional health, nutrition, and exercise. The book is written in simple language and has illustrations that make it easy to understand for young girls.
2. Guy Stuff: The Body Book for Boys by Cara Natterson
This book is written for boys going through puberty. It covers topics like physical changes in the body, voice changes, and personal hygiene, along with emotional health, nutrition, and exercise. The book is written in a straight-forward, easy to understand language and has illustrations that make it interesting for young boys.
3. Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain by Daniel J. Siegel
This is an insightful book that explains the science behind the teenage brain. It discusses the various brain changes that happen during adolescence and explains why some behaviors and emotions are so common among teens. The book provides practical strategies to help teens navigate through this phase and manage stress and emotions effectively.
4. Real Talk About Sex and Consent: What Every Teen Needs to Know by Cheryl M. Bradshaw
This book deals with an essential topic that must be discussed with teenagers at this age – sex and consent. The book covers topics such as communication, healthy relationships, contraception, and consent. It presents information in a way that is interesting and easy for teens to understand, making it an ideal read for 7th-grade students.
Conclusion:
Teaching health to middle school students is crucial as it helps them understand their bodies, make informed choices, and develop healthy habits. The books mentioned above are great resources that can help teachers and parents educate middle school students about various aspects of health. It is time to take children’s health seriously and impart health education in schools, homes, and communities. After all, healthy children make healthy adults, and that is the ultimate goal.
