A framework of concepts in nutrition, environmental factors, genetics, and human growth and development is presented as a background for developing elementary and secondary curricula on responsible childbearing. Aspects of the four subject areas are outlined for instruction at five education levels: preschool through kindergarten, primary, upper elementary, middle/junior high, and senior high. Each of the subject areas is discussed in relation to goals and key concepts. The key concepts covered in the chapter on nutrition include the importance of nutrition for everyone and especially for pregnant women, food preparation methods, and eating habits. Those concepts discussed in relation to environment are the dangers of drugs and chemicals, infectious diseases, pollution, radiation, and the baby's delivery process. The concepts in the chapter on genetics include heredity and environment, and the causes and consequences of genetic disorders and birth defects. The chapter on human growth and development discusses developmental stages and the physical, emotional, and intellectual needs that affect human behavior and health. In the discussions of each topic, information is suggested as a basis for class discussion and instructional development. Each chapter is followed by a list of references. Charts indicate the recommended education level for teaching the key concepts. A final essay endorses the idea of action on the local level to make courses on responsible childbearing a part of the school curriculum. (FG)