The Parenting Profession
This three-day tenth grade program focuses on the roles of both mothers and fathers, stresses of teen parents, the needs of children and child abuse prevention. It is presented by the Education Coordinator or another trained staff member. Each day's presentation lasts approximately 50 minutes (or one class period). On day one, the topics are "Characteristics of Good Parents," "Characteristics of Teenagers," "Statistics on Teen Pregnancy," and "Problems Faced by Teen Parents." The topics for day two include "Roles of Both Mothers and Fathers," "The Decline of Fatherhood in the U.S.," and "Two Parents Provide a Balance." Students play a Relationship Bingo Game.  On day three, a role play exercise, CHOICES, illustrates how choices teens make effect the rest of their lives. Other topics covered include "Common Characteristics of Abusers," "Basic Facts about Abuse," and "Types of Abuse."

Students will increase their respect for and understanding of the parenting role. They will be more aware of the challenges of parenting and recognize the importance of the first three years of a child's life.  They will examine the effects of becoming a teen parent and develop an increased awareness concerning child abuse and neglect.

The teacher receives a packet of follow-up information and activities, as well as information on child abuse and neglect to pass on to the counselor. "The tenth grade program is so important. The presenter does an excellent job because she cares about the students and the material she is sharing," a tenth grade teacher said in his evaluation of this program.