Getting Students Involved

Classroom Guidelines for Talking About Prevention

1. Build Trust First
   • Create a safe space where students feel heard.
   • Listen actively—show empathy and respect their experiences.
2. Make it Relatable
   • Use real-life, age-appropriate examples or scenarios students might face.
   • Encourage open discussion rather than lectures.
3. Focus on Skills, Not Just Rules
   • Teach decision-making and problem-solving skills.
   • Encourage self-awareness and emotional regulation.
   • Discuss healthy coping strategies for stress or peer pressure.
4. Highlight Positive Choices
   • Celebrate examples of kindness, teamwork, and resilience.
   • Reinforce the idea that small positive actions matter.
5. Encourage Student Voice
   • Ask students how they handle challenges or conflicts.
   • Let them brainstorm solutions or ways to support each other.
6. Connect to Resources
   • Let students know where to get help if they’re struggling (school counselor, trusted adult, community programs).
   • Include age-appropriate guidance for students to seek help safely.

Sample Classroom Conversation Starters

• “What are some ways we can look out for each other at school?”
• “How can you handle peer pressure in a way that feels right to you?”
• “What’s a healthy way to deal with stress when school feels overwhelming?”
• “Who can you talk to if you see someone struggling?”

Key Reminders for Teachers

• Prevention is ongoing, not a one-time lesson.
• Focus on skills, choices, and support rather than just consequences.
• Your modeling matters—students notice how you handle challenges and relationships.

Tip: Incorporate prevention naturally into everyday classroom routines—morning check-ins, group discussions, and reflection exercises.