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The Transylvania Times
“Learning To Make The Right Decisions” by Kim MacQueen, Staff Writer
In the past, discussions about substance abuse prevention has focused on children who were at-risk for trying drugs or alcohol.
Lately, the conversation is shifting from telling children who might be likely to try drugs or alcohol to just say “no” and focusing more on helping all children learn how to make the right decisions through all of life.
Rachael Austin teaches Positive Action, a program sponsored by ARP/Phoenix Prevention Services, a division of Sisters of Mercy in Asheville.
The program is recognized by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration as an effective way to teach kids decision-making skills that can help them learn for themselves both how and why to say no to drugs.
She teaches at Brevard Academy and Brevard Middle School.
“I don’t tell them what not to do. I help them find out who they are and what’s important to them,” Austin said.
“I teach a simple concept: positive thoughts lead to positive actions, leading in turn to positive feelings.”
Austin explained that Positive Action helps kids develop the ability to plan and set goals for who they want to be.
She’s got a poster tacked up on the wall of her classroom outlining her own goal, to run a marathon, along with drawings depicting what she’s going to have to do realize that goal: things like exercise, eat right, get lots of sleep and stay positive. Students have posted their own drawings all over the walls, illustrating their goals and what positive action means to them.
“Once kids feel they’re going somewhere, and they understand what consequences their actions will have on their future, they’re more protected. It’s like bubble wrap,” she said.
During a recent session, students talked about what they liked about Austin’s class.
“The class helps us know how we feel about things,” said Claire Watkins, 12.
“We learn stuff about ourselves. It helps a lot.”
“Writing it all down helps us see where we’re at and get where we want to be,” said Connor Freeman, 12.
Thursday’s discussion centered on listening skills. Students jumped in their seats with their hands in the air, vying for parts in an in-class role-playing pointing out the importance of really listening to each other. Later, two students were picked to sit in the middle of the class and spoke directly to each other about topics like bullying, while the rest of the class watched their body language and assessed their listening skills.
Austin explained that development of listening skills is one of the important protective factors, like eating healthy or exercising, that students can use to help take care of themselves and others.
“It all helps to create a climate of positive thinking, and they respond to it,” Austin said.
“The students are really gaining a sense of belonging, a positive belief in their future, and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle.”
“I truly believe in it. That’s why I love teaching it.”
Kim MacQueen may be contacted at kimmacqueen@citcom.net.