Health risks associated with smoking are well known and children can be especially vulnerable to advertising, peer pressure and other influences. A study published in Tobacco Control, an international journal, highlighted the results of a very special in-school intervention program that was implemented in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota. Through a program developed by the NTC Research Foundation, 160 elementary schools in the Twin Cities area received a unique health and wellness program.
The experience came in the form of a live play and supporting classroom instruction which focused on encouraging non-smoking in elementary school age children. The program included extensive measures, such as questionnaires for the students before and after the live event as well as special curriculum for use in the classroom. This curriculum was also sent home with students to share with their parents. Read this case story on the methods and impact of this innovative program.
