Recent incidents of school violence have shown us that violence stems from a feeling of anger and resentment towards those that tease and make some kids feel like outcasts. "Sticks & Stones" (a Kindergarten through Grade 4 program) was developed at the Atlantic County Division of Public Health in New Jersey, in an early prevention effort to help kids develop social skills to deal with bullying and teasing. The program was initially implemented in the Fall of 1999 in fifteen elementary schools. Over one thousand children participated in the initial offering of the program. "Sticks & Stones" includes lessons on telling the difference between teasing and bullying, how to deal with a bully, how not to be a bully, and knowing which actions/words can make people feel good/bad. Information for parents and teachers was included and take home packets were provided to each child. "Sticks & Stones" is unique in that it was conceived by a health education intern working at a public health division as her last step toward finishing her bachelor's degree in community health education. This intern was a product of the county school system where she had been active in school violence prevention while in high school. Her familiarity with the schools and school problems proved to be a valuable asset in the planning and implementation of this program.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participants will be able to: 1. Determine components of a successful school violence prevention program. 2. Distinguish between bullying and teasing. 3. Discuss how parents/teachers can help prevent bullying
Keywords: School Health, Youth Violence
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Atlantic County Division of Public Health
- Northfield, New Jersey
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.