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Introduction to the School-Based ProgramThe purpose of this section of the New Ways to Play web site is to present an idea for communities, working in partnership with elementary schools, to take positive action in reducing violence in the life of children. We know that violence is a learned behavior We also know that groups of organizations and whole communities working together can have greater impact than one individual or a single group working alone. During the week of February 13-22 1998 the Running Brook Elementary School, its PTA and the members of the Columbia United Christian Church joined together to focus attention on the negative aspects of violent play, and to suggest alternatives for children and their families. During that week approximately 60 students turned in toys they considered to be violent. In return they received a Peacemaker Certificate redeemable for free (peacejul!) gifts and ice cream from participating area merchants. On Thursday February 19th the school invited Scales and Tales, a division of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, to present a live program (including snakes and birds of prey) for the students. That evening over 300 people - students, parents and other adults spent an exciting 2 hours playing together in a wide variety of non-violent cooperative activities (play stations included everything from storytelling and crafts to parachutes and jump ropes.) Every student received a welcome bag that included stickers and games, and door prizes were announced throughout the evening. Rave reviews were given by children and adults! In this partnership three organizations worked together: Running Brook Elementary School, Running Brook's Parent/Teacher Association, and the Columbia United Christian Church. Three meetings were held to plan the events and work out a way to share responsibilities. Running Brook Elementary School contributed its space and enthusiastic leadership; the church contributed its experience gained over several years of implementing this program, and the PTA provided a pre-New Ways pizza dinner to the volunteers as well as extra support personnel. In agreeing to participate in the New Ways program, Running Brook Elementary School also agreed to mentor another school in planning a New Ways program the following year. This "each one teach one" philosophy aims to encourage the New Ways program idea to spread to greater and greater areas, more than one single group could reach alone. Last updated |