August - Stay Safe

August is a time to prepare for Back-to-school!

Dear HCC Members:

Hello Everyone, Summer is winding down and Back-to-School is right around the corner. We know things will be different this year. We have included some informative resources for parents to help kids cope with stress along with information to help prepare for the school year ahead. We hope that you will share this information in your circle of influence.

For any questions related to information contained in this newsletter or related to youth substance use prevention, please do not hesitate to contact us at hcc@councilonaddiction.orgor (716) 373-4303 ext. 518.

Please follow us on social media! Facebook: @yourlife-yourchoicehcc or Twitter & Instagram: @healthycattco.

Thank you all for that you do in the community!

HCC's Parents and Kidz Quiz Links:

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Parents, it is important to talk to your teens about substance use. When you talk to your kids it is important to know the facts. Please take this time to “test your knowledge” on teen substance use. With each response you give, the answer to each question will be revealed, along with a brief explanation.

To take the Parent's Edu-Quiz click here!

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Kids, It is important to know the facts about substance abuse. Once you've reviewed the information on the Youth section of the website, it's time to “test your knowledge”. With each response you give, the answer to each question will be revealed, along with a brief explanation.

To take the Kids-Quiz click here!

How You Can Ease Back-To-School Anxiety And Stress

Back-to-school anxiety is normal and understandable. Many kids may feel anxious about going back to school after a long summer break. Others may feel nervous about starting school for the first time.Regardless of what the case may be, parents can help ease the transition to back-to-school by being able to recognize the symptoms of stress and anxiety and implementing some creative strategies. Read more

Back to School in a Pandemic: What Families Can Expect This Fall

Key Takeaways

Amidst concerns of students falling behind, there is a nationwide push to reopen schools in some capacity.
Many schools may implement a back-to-school schedule that looks different from the traditional five-day school week.
Consider the pros and cons of each option if your school system offers you a choice this fall.

Preparing K-12 School Administrators for a Safe Return to School in Fall 2020

Schools are an important part of the infrastructure of communities and play a critical role in supporting the whole child, not just their academic achievement.

This guidance is intended to aid school administrators as they consider how to protect the health, safety, and wellbeing of students, teachers, other school staff, their families, and communities and prepare for educating students this fall. Read more

Support For Teens and Young Adults

Some of the questions you might be asking are, “Should I be freaking out about COVID-19?” and “Why can’t I hang out with my friends in person?”. You may be feeling worried, bored, or frustrated. COVID-19 is frightening, and you are not the only one feeling stressed.

While anyone can catch the virus that causes COVID-19 and people of all ages and backgrounds can get severely ill, most people have a mild illness and are able to recover at home. But regardless of your personal risk, it is natural to be concerned for your friends and family or about uncertainty and changes in your daily routine. Read more