Learn to interpret media messages.

In the tradition of the Straight Talk series, practical ways for students to gain media literacy are outlined in this timely new video. Analyzing the purposes of media messages and interpreting hidden agendas is a vital skill for young teens under barrage from high-pressure marketing. FromStraight Talk About Sex, Gender, and Media, students will begin to develop a healthy critical approach to the many different forms the media takes, and to make more informed decisions regarding their own choices with regard to sexuality. This video raises the awareness of young people and promotes abstinence from risky behavior.

A dramatically different approach to puberty education. Please note that the working title for this video was Straight Talk about Mental Health. In this second Straight Talk program, hosts Lisa and Jason tackle issues that affect the mental well-being of young people:

• More about hormones and emotions
• Interacting responsibly with others
• Developing a healthy body image
• Making decisions based on facts
• Recognizing and resisting commercial pressures • Identifying, understanding, and expressing emotions
• Constructing a strong personal identity The question and answer format will help students sort out their conflicting thoughts, beliefs, and emotions and come to terms with themselves and their bodies. Straight Talk About Self-Image and Identity will help boys and girls approach maturity with grace and confidence.

Learn to deal with social pressures.

Adolescent peer groups bridge the gap between childhood and adulthood, and friends can often facilitate what is sometimes a difficult stage of development. However, peer pressure can also be detrimental and lead teens into trouble. Straight Talk About Peer Pressure helps middle school students learn how to navigate through peer situations which conflict with feelings and values. Practical tips for self-reflection, coping mechanisms for maintaining friendships, and developing refusal skills are featured in this constructive presentation.

This new program includes two parts (Part 1-Physical Changes/Part 2-Emotional and Social Changes.)  It's like getting two programs on one DVD!

Part 1

Ella confides in older sister Emily, who provides reassuring information on the physical changes to expect during puberty.  Topics include:

• When to expect the onset of puberty
• The female reproductive system
• The menstrual cycle
• Hormones
• Health and hygiene

Part 2

Emily and Andres discuss many of the emotional and social changes that boys and girls experience during puberty.  Topics include:

• Body image
• Self esteem
• peer pressure
• Cliques
• Bullying
• And much more!

This new program includes two parts (Part 1-Physical Changes/Part 2-Emotional and Social Changes.)  It's like getting two programs on one DVD!

Part 1:

Matthew s fun is over shadowed by a permission slip from school.  Big brother Adrew helps ease the fear of having "the puberty talk" by providing reassuring information on the physical changes of puberty.  Topics include:

-When to expect the onset of puberty

-The male reproductive system

-Hormones

-Common experiences of puberty, including voice changes, feelings of physical awkwardness, and nocturnal emissions

-The importance of good hygiene and healthy habits

Part 2:

Andrew and Emily discuss the emotional and social changes boys and girls experience during puberty.  Topics include:

-Body image

-Self Esteem

-Peer Pressure

-Cliques

-Social Awkwardness

-Bullying 

Friends are particularly important to a young person with special needs and having the right skills can make all the difference. I Know How to Act is a play within a play, featuring both students with special needs and typically developing peers acting out different social behaviors. This program takes an original and unique approach to conveying social and leadership skills in a way kids can easily understand. It is also an especially good representation of inclusion. Key points are marked throughout the program where the teacher can stop the DVD for supplemental class discussion.

Topics include: cognitive challenges, dating, friendship, inclusion, and other social and leadership skills.