Recognizing the expanded role that teachers play in the classroom, the National Catholic Educational Association generated this elementary guidance curriculum as a support and guide for the Catholic classroom teacher. This six-volume series (vol. 1: program manual; vol 2: early childhood and kindergarten; vol. 3: grades 1/2; vol. 4: grades 3/4; vol. 5: grades 5/6; vol. 6: grades 7/8) which extends from early childhood to eighth grade, includes, among others, the following 18 topics: (1) understanding self and others; (2) courtesy and respect for others; (3) communication; (4) friendship; (5) family; (6) moral decision-making; (7) stress management; (8) time management; (9) self-safety; (10) self-direction and responsibility; (11) substance abuse awareness; (12) describing and expressing feelings; (13) conflict resolution; (14) cultural similarities and differences; (15) loss; (16) individual differences; (17) Christian sexuality; and (18) HIV/AIDS. The first volume includes the philosophy and scope and sequence of the curriculum as well as directions on how to use this manual. The competencies required for guidance teachers are considered under the three headings of attitudes, skills, and concepts. The teacher's personal qualities and attitudes are prerequisites for fostering student affective growth. Concepts considered as important for guidance teaching include normal development; group dynamics; individual needs, self-esteem, indicators of distress, and affective education concepts. Although this series expresses and fosters Christian values, it is not intended to replace religion classes. It is hoped that these volumes will help the teacher integrate value and guidance in instruction and thus enhance the growth of the total person. (RJM)