Human Development Program
Every Middle School and Upper School student at Indian Creek School takes our hallmark course, Human Development, every year. Focusing on each phase of cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development, students learn about themselves, their bodies, their brains, their identities, their decision-making, and how they interact with the world around them.
In the Upper School, Human Development (HD) is divided into four units, each with its own instructor and subject matter taught at developmentally-appropriate levels to each of the four Upper School grades. Students meet regularly in small sections which prove to be safe spaces for vulnerable conversations and learning.
Unit 1: Belonging, Perspective-taking, and Empathy
Students will work to understand how to engage in difficult conversations on topics we might disagree on, and how to understand, think critically about, and offer empathy towards perspectives that differ from our own.
Unit 2: Physical/Mental Health & Wellbeing
Students will discuss healthy decision making, self-advocacy, and self-care. Topics included self-awareness around and understanding of mental health issues, managing stress and anxiety, how to help a friend in need, information about substance abuse and addiction, and more.
Unit 3: Healthy Relationships & Sexual Education.
Students will cover topics including healthy communication, respect and consent, reproductive and sexual health, preventative care, and understanding gender and sexuality.
Unit 4: Leadership & Citizenship
Topics included how to be an "upstander," self-awareness of strengths and leading styles, digital citizenship and appropriate use of social media, time management, and planning for the future.
Indian Creek School
Indian Creek school is a co-educational, college preparatory independent school, located in Crownsville, Maryland. Students in Pre-K3 through grade 12 receive a vibrant educational experience based on excellent academics steeped in strong student-teacher connections.
