Through a series of eight cumulative stories and
multiple instructional strategies, the TRAILS units are designed to
utilize the most effective and current methods of teaching children in early
childhood classrooms.
Consistent themes are carried throughout each unit, to ensure a connected program where
students continually build on their skills. Children learn interactively
through participation, making choices, and observing consequences based on
those choices. Large, colorful books, reflection questions, methods to access
prior knowledge, and related follow-up activities are included for each of the
eight units. Authentic styles of assessment (group discussions, role-plays, art
activities, and self reflection) generate student interest and are used
throughout the units.
The TRAILS
curriculum focuses on intrapersonal factors. These are the personality
characteristics and ways of thinking which increase or decrease the likelihood
of a student using alcohol and /or other drugs. This includes understanding
consequences, personal values, attitudes, and
self-efficacy.
TRAILS places
a strong focus on the life-skill development that is essential to students, in
order to make their own health choices. TRAILS gives teachers the
opportunity to help their students develop healthy behaviors by teaching
specific skills that promote self-efficacy. The TRAILS units emphasize
personal and social skills, which form the basis for teaching health promotion,
risk prevention, and youth development. |
