Wonders of skin: Looking good, being healthy

The New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) Office of School Health Programs in partnership with American Skin Association has developed an innovative educational program, The Wonders of Skin: Looking Good, Being Healthy. The program includes curriculum, staff development, consultation, and technical assistance. The goal is to build the capacity of schools to educate children and teens about skin health and disease prevention. The K-12 curriculum was developed through an interdisciplinary effort of health educators, dermatologists and classroom teachers and is skills-based, culturally sensitive, and aligns with national health and science education standards. It includes the structure and function of skin, sun safety, acne, tattooing and body piercing, and media awareness, among other topics. It provides a vehicle for teachers to address diversity issues in a constructive way and helps to build a positive learning environment for all students. It includes interactive take-home materials for students, parents and families that link to, reinforce and expand classroom lessons. To implement the program nationally, NYAM provides training workshops for teachers in partnership with local dermatologists who are recruited to participate in the professional development program and serve as resources to the school community. To date, NYAM has trained teachers in 27 school systems around the country, reaching more than 3 million students. The program resulted in the elevation of education about skin to a level of paramount importance as part of regular school instruction. Students reported modifying their behavior, including a greater willingness to use sunscreen. Capacity building handouts will be provided.