Programs in this core area develop young people’s capacity to engage in positive behaviors that nurture their own well-being, set personal goals and live successfully as self-sufficient adults.
Cavity-Free Zone
The Cavity-Free Zone program will improve members’ self-esteem; develop sound, lifelong dental habits; teach the best techniques for brushing, flossing and otherwise maintaining healthy teeth; and alert members to serious risks to their dental health.The Cavity-Free Zone program materials feature fun, engaging sessions and activities for Club members.
Supported by Delta Dental of Minnesota
SMART Moves – Skills Mastery and Resistance Training
This nationally acclaimed comprehensive prevention program helps young people resist alcohol, tobacco and other drug use, as well as premature sexual activity. SMART Moves features engaging, interactive, small-group activities that increase participants’ peer support, enhance their skills, build their resiliency and strengthen their leadership skills. This year-round program encourages collaborations among Club staff, youth, parents and representatives from other community organizations. The program’s components are: SMART Kids for ages 6-9; Start SMART for ages 10-12; Stay SMART for ages 13-15.
SMART Girls
SMART Girls is a small-group health, fitness, prevention/education and self-esteem enhancement program designed to meet the developmental needs of girls. Through dynamic sessions, highly participatory activities, field trips and mentoring opportunities with adult women, Club girls explore their own and societal attitudes and values as they build skills for eating right, staying fit, getting good health care and developing positive relationships with peers and adults.
Date SMART
The Date SMART program is intended to increase young people’s understanding and build the skills they need to achieve healthy relationships free of violence and abuse. Participating youth also increase their ability to help their friends and family members who may be experiencing dating, sexual or domestic violence.
Healthy Habits
Healthy Habits is designed to incorporate healthy living in every part of the Club experience. Through this program, children gain knowledge regarding nutrition, making good food choices, & understanding portion sizes. They learn that healthy eating choices, combined with an active lifestyle are the recipe for improving one’s overall well-being.Healthy Habits uses experiential learning activities in a small-group setting, allowing members to develop healthy attitudes & behaviors about nutritional eating & physical fitness. The program supports Club members in making positive decisions about their well-being. Participants build skills related to fitness & positive lifestyle changes.