Pubdate: Wed, 22 Nov 2006 Source: Maple Ridge News (CN BC) Copyright: 2006 Maple Ridge News Contact: http://www.mapleridgenews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1328 Author: Shirley Bond, Minister of Education METH EDUCATION AIMED AT YOUTH Crystal methamphetamine production and use is a serious and growing problem in British Columbia that can affect us all. Did you know that chemicals and fumes produced in a meth lab pose a risk of fire and explosions, and can expose neighbours to dangerous toxins, fumes and hazardous by-products? Even more disturbing is the impact crystal meth use is having on the lives of our young people. According to recent studies, approximately five per cent of B.C. students in grades 7-12 may have used methamphetamine. That's about 17,000 young people. That's a staggering number. And crystal meth use is much higher among some groups of at-risk youths. Studies also show that most first-time use of crystal meth occurs in grades 9 or 10. So if we're going to stop kids from trying crystal meth, we need to reach them before they are in Grade 9 - when they are in Grade 6 or 7. And that's just what we are doing. The provincial government recently rolled out a $3-million classroom and public education campaign aimed directly at youth, parents and teachers. We have been working with addiction experts at the Centre for Addiction Research of B.C., located at the University of Victoria, to develop the very best crystal meth resources for our schools and the public. Research done by these experts shows that young people are much more influenced by people with whom they have a steady and trusted relationship, such as friends, parents and teachers, than incorrect information and scare tactics. That's why our school program features tools and resources for students, parents and teachers. The classroom lessons begin in Grade 6 and the resources continue through Grade 12. They will help our young people make healthy choices about what they put in their bodies - choices that will ultimately affect their mental, physical and emotional development. Research shows that students retain information when it is interactive, practical and relevant to them. So we have developed classroom activities such as games and tips for handling certain situations, like how to stay safe when they are out with their friends or how to say no to peer pressure, and activities they can take home to use with their parents. We have also developed a website at www.no2meth.ca that has information, tools and resources for students, parents and teachers. For students, there are sections on meth facts, how to talk to your parents about drugs, and how to stay safe when you are out with your friends. For parents, there are sections on why kids do drugs, as well as tips on how to talk to your child about drugs, and what protective steps to take before your child is exposed to drugs. We have also printed a parents' guide to crystal meth that will be available through schools. - --- MAP posted-by: Elaine