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Media Release
ONE AND ALL: DRUG EDUCATION THAT BUILDS STRONG MINDS
Friday 14 October 2005
A drug education program for middle primary school children that does away with scare tactics and focuses instead on building resilience was launched in Sydney today by Pat Farmer MP.
“One and All is a drug education kit for teachers with model activities that deliberately leave out the word ‘drugs’,” Mr Farmer said.
“The whole idea is to teach children how to cope with the many challenges they face in school, like bullying, rejection and conflict.”
Mr Farmer said Australian research had identified that drug-related harm in later life can be linked to:
- behavioural problems through primary school;
- early school failure; and
- aggression in childhood.
“One and All takes a leaf out of corporate manuals that use emotional intelligence to help CEOs better manage staff,” said Mr Farmer.
“By feeling, managing and understanding their emotions, primary school children – like CEOs – can turn frustration into friendship and say ‘no’ to things not in their best interests.
“The key word is resilience - the ability to bounce back from adversity – that enables children to better tackle the challenges of school or social life.
“Young people who have strong relationships – with their friends, family, school and within their community – are more resilient than those who don’t.
“Resilient, informed children who have a sense of belonging in their communities tend to lead fulfilling, healthy lives free from the dangers of drugs and other high risk activities.
“Students are able to bring these lessons home to their parents.”
Mr Farmer said the Australian Government is committed to ensuring children are given every opportunity to lead safe, happy, drug-free lives.
One and All is part of the Australian Government’s $47.5 million National School Drug Education Strategy, and an Australian first for building resilience in our kids.
Part of the Resilience Education and Drug Information (REDI) resources One and All will be distributed to every primary school nationally during Term 4. Further information about the kit is available at: www.redi.gov.au/
Media Contact: Nigel Dique 0421 588 086
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