The GROWING UP STRONG® program is based on the philosophy that the best way to prevent substance abuse, as well as a number of other problems, is to help every child  develop strong mental health which includes:
:: a strong, positive self-concept
:: the ability to cope with and express emotions appropriately
:: healthy adult and peer relationships.
GROWING UP STRONG focuses on a child’s feelings about themselves and teaches them life skills such as: decision-making, problem-solving, and responsibility.
The GUS Teacher's Guide is easy to use and GUS activities can be incorporated into any classroom setting. The GUS curriculum provides materials such as:
:: classroom activities (click here for a sample of an activity)
:: awards/recognition
:: handouts for parents
:: a skill set for helping children deal with emotions.
GUS and GUSSIE, the characters that illustrate GROWING UP STRONG, are used as dolls or puppets in the program. GUS and GUSSIE dolls function as an outlet for children to use as a "special friend" or to help children express their feelings.
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