Bullying in Schools: What Is It and How to Prevent It

Bullying in Schools: What Is It and How to Prevent It

Jessica Kaado, Preventionist As a parent, sending a child to school comes with a unique set of worries: Will my child make friends? Are they struggling academically? Are they being challenged? Are they being bullied? There is no doubt about the drastic differences in curriculum and school environment across the decades, but one thing always…

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5 Mindful Self-Care Practices For Teens

5 Mindful Self-Care Practices For Teens

By Colleen Sharlow, Preventionist Being a teenager in today’s world can be tough — constantly being surrounded by new social media trends, worrying about the future, and facing pressures at home, school, and amongst peers can certainly take a toll on one’s mental health. Although there is not a singular solution to fix these stressors,…

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What’s New in Schools?

What’s New in Schools?

By: Rikki Siegel, Preventionist As a Preventionist at Wellspring Center for Prevention, I get the opportunity to go to several different schools, meet so many eager students, and work with wonderful teachers. One of my favorite programs to teach during the school year is Footprints for Life. Footprints for Life is a research-based primary prevention…

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Engaging Parents in School-Based Prevention Programs

Engaging Parents in School-Based Prevention Programs

Parental engagement is a cornerstone of successful education and plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of school-based prevention programs. These initiatives, aimed at addressing issues like substance abuse, bullying, and mental health, benefit significantly from the active involvement of parents.  Engaging parents not only enhances student outcomes but also strengthens the bond between families…

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‘Forest Friends’ Is Shaping Young Minds in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties

‘Forest Friends’ Is Shaping Young Minds in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties

By: Rikki Siegel, Preventionist The 2023-2024 winter season is off to a great start at Wellspring Center for Prevention. Preventionists are teaching all different programs in elementary, middle, and high schools throughout Middlesex and Monmouth Counties. I am so excited to be back at Wellspring after being on maternity leave and was able to jump…

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6 Ways To Establish Inclusive Learning Environments

6 Ways To Establish Inclusive Learning Environments

Inclusive classrooms promote a warm and welcoming environment for students, acting as a “home away from home.” An inclusive classroom can also help students develop safe friendships and look forward to their time in school. Discover several methods for creating this type of classroom below.  What are inclusive learning environments? An inclusive learning environment is…

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Middle School Experimentation With Alcohol, Vaping, and Marijuana: What Parents Should Know

Middle School Experimentation With Alcohol, Vaping, and Marijuana: What Parents Should Know

Middle school years are fraught with change, growth, and experimentation. Recent data reveals a troubling trend: kids are trying alcohol, e-cigarettes, and cannabis at an increasingly young age. With the myriad health risks and potential for addiction associated with these substances, it’s vital for parents to be informed. Laurie Herrick, Middlesex County’s Regional Chronic Disease…

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Methods to Create a Negative Peer-Pressure-Free School Environment

Methods to Create a Negative Peer-Pressure-Free School Environment

While teachers and staff can’t control the creation and distribution of negative peer pressure in a school, they can employ methods that mitigate its effects.  You can achieve a less stressful and positive school environment by focusing on positive peer influences, establishing safe places, and encouraging open communication between staff and students. Here is a…

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COVID-19 Effects on the 2022-2023 School Year

COVID-19 Effects on the 2022-2023 School Year

By Rikki Frischman, Preventionist The 2022-2023 school year has just begun. As people move on from the craziness of the last two and a half years, many teachers, parents, and students still have thoughts and concerns about what this new school year will bring. While the risk of children getting very sick from Covid-19 is…

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