Recommended Prevention Resources

Almost one out of every three children in America lives in a family hurt by alcoholism and/or other drug addiction. Research suggests these kids are at risk for a variety of behavioral, emotional, physical and psychological problems as they grow and develop. This often manifests itself at school through inconsistent attendance, behavior problems and academic difficulties.

There is much hope! Effective prevention and early intervention programs can make a significant difference in the lives of children from addicted families. Through age-appropriate information, skill building and opportunities to bond with peers dealing with similar challenges, children can build their strengths and deepen resilience. Early in the development of the Betty Ford Children's Program, Mrs. Ford made it clear that "We need to go where the children are and not wait for them to come to us." Thus began the creation of our school program.

This unique prevention approach empowers youngsters by focusing on four main goals:

1. Teaching children about addiction in age-appropriate ways;
2. Building communication skills, especially identifying and expressing feelings;
3. Introducing kids to problem-solving tools, with an emphasis on safety;
4. Developing a variety of coping and self-care skills.

The three- or four-day, all day, process takes place at the school and utilizes art, games, storytelling, role play, films and recreation in a highly engaging manner. There are many opportunities for the children to simply be kids. Like our regular four-day program offered in community settings, the first two days focus primarily on children learning that addiction is not their fault and they are not alone, as well as providing the chance for kids to share, in a variety of ways, about their thoughts, feelings and needs. Since the school program doesn't have a parent component, on the last two days we empower youth with problem-solving and coping skills. Many of the children in our school programs live with active addiction, so helping them to develop safety plans and gain insight about whom the safe people in their lives may be gives them essential skills to face their daily challenges in healthy ways.

School counselors play a key role in the program by selecting 12 children, ages 7-12, who come from families hurt by addiction. We always ask for counselors to think of diversity in the selection process. By coming up with a rich mix of students who will work well together, counselors, hand in hand with Betty Ford staff, insure a positive experience for all. Staff meet with school counselors at the end of the program to pass along recommendations and concerns they noted over the four days. The school counselors receive a set of Beamer books to use with the students as a follow-up. These books help kids continue to learn about addiction, problem solving and how to turn to safe people when help is needed.

For more information about Betty Ford School Programs please contact Jerry Moe, M.A., National Director, at .

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