ABSTINENCE FIRST
Our Abstinence-First Approach
At LifeSmart Youth, we use an abstinence-first approach that encourages students to delay sexual activity while also equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to make safe, healthy decisions throughout their lives.
We define abstinence as when a person chooses not to have sex until they are an adult.
We emphasize that abstinence:
Is the only 100% effective way to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Allows young people time to grow emotionally, socially, and mentally
Supports healthy relationship boundaries and personal goal setting
Our programs teach students that choosing abstinence is a positive, healthy, and acceptable decision.
Indiana State Law and Abstinence Education
LifeSmart Youth follows all Indiana laws and requirements regarding human sexuality instruction. Indiana law requires that schools teaching human sexuality or sexually transmitted infection education emphasize abstinence as the expected standard for school-age children.
Under Indiana Code 20-30-5-13, schools providing instruction on human sexuality must include that:
Abstinence from sexual activity outside of marriage is the expected standard for school-age children
Abstinence is the only certain way to avoid pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and associated health risks
Healthy relationships and responsible decision-making are important components of overall well-being
Indiana law also requires greater transparency in curriculum and guardian access to instructional materials under Senate Bill 442. LifeSmart Youth supports schools by providing accessible curriculum information and helping districts remain compliant with state requirements.
Medically Accurate and Age-Appropriate Education
While abstinence is presented as the safest choice for adolescents, LifeSmart Youth also believes students deserve factual, medically accurate information. Our curriculum aligns with the National Sexuality Education Standards and Indiana Academic Standards for grades K-12 Health and Wellness requirements, providing students with developmentally appropriate education that helps them understand:
Human growth and development
Hygiene and body safety
Healthy relationships and consent
Communication and refusal skills
Peer pressure and decision-making
Pregnancy and STI prevention
How to seek help from safe adults and healthcare professionals
Our goal is not to shame or pressure students, but to provide education that helps them make responsible and informed choices.
Partnering with Schools and Families
We recognize that parents and guardians are the primary educators of their children. LifeSmart Youth partners with schools and families by providing transparent, evidence-based/evidence-informed curricula that support ongoing conversations at home and in the community.
Our programs are designed to create safe, respectful learning environments where students can ask questions, gain knowledge, and build skills that guide them toward healthy and successful lives.
Partner with us to empower students to lead healthy & safe lives.
