One of the major difficulties, and one of the monumental…
““One of the major difficulties, and one of the monumental dangers, of sex education courses in public schools is that they disregard this significant principle of teaching. They tell all before the youngster is ready, and in so doing, they often wreak havoc with the spiritual, emotional, and moral stability of the students. They open them to great jeopardy. Things should be done in the season thereof, and there is a time for all things. A wise teacher and a wise parent will be alert to that fact. Likewise, in programming Church activities we should use great wisdom in considering the maturity and readiness of our members to be taught the basic principles of morality. If we teach the basic principles too soon, they may be meaningless to the youngsters. The matter of teaching morality may be necessary, but the framework in which it is set should recognize the degree of maturity and readiness. For instance, when the youngster is too young to have been subjected to the urging of physical desires, he must be taught about the subject in an entirely different way than will be appropriate when he is older. There will come a time for some more mature discussion later, but this must always be with reverence.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Teaching moral concepts should match the learner’s maturity to avoid spiritual and emotional harm.
In simple terms: Teach age‑appropriate morality.
Key Takeaway
Match moral teaching to developmental stage.
Themes
education
morality
development
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
ethical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- parenting
- school curricula
- religious instruction
Key Concepts
pedagogy
spiritual guidance
Questions to Reflect On
- When is the right time to discuss sensitive topics?
- How to gauge readiness without withholding truth?
A Different Perspective
Over‑protecting can delay necessary growth; balance is needed.