Drug Free Charlotte County has recently started an elementary school outreach to encourage resiliency and unity in families. Something as simple as a reminder of what we already know to do – but forget to do, is sometimes all it takes to make a difference.
Winning Words is a parent pick up distribution of words on a magnet given to everyone in the pickup line…words that can be placed on the frig as a reminder. We have piloted this outreach during parent pickup at three elementary schools: Peace River, Myakka, and Deep Creek.
In September the winning word was “encouragement.” On the front of the bright blue card was the word “ENCOURAGEMENT” – and “notice something positive and encourage it daily” written on the back. All three schools were very receptive and appreciative of the opportunity to participate in this project. And, to our surprise, the “patrols” (students who help with parent pick up) asked if they could pass out the words for us!
At Deep Creek elementary, we had six volunteers from Women United pass out the magnets and talk to the parents, students, and teachers for Day of Caring Day. It was a delightful experience.
In October, the winning words on a bright yellow card read “ONE ON ONE” on the front and “special time with just you and your child….no interruptions or distractions” on the back. As parents, we can spend all plenty of money on our kids, but what impacts them most is spending our time on them.
With all that is happening in our world and society today, we need all the family resiliency and unity we can get. Words matter…
…Let’s make them winning words.
Rachel Struebing RN, Prevention Coordinator Drug Free Charlotte County