At Walt Disney Elementary, we will be recognizing Red Ribbon Week this coming week (October 23 – 30th). Red Ribbon Week is a celebration done nationwide. It is the time when we raise awareness about saying NO to tobacco, alcohol, and illegal drugs. October is also anti-bullying month, so we will be raising awareness about that as well.
“Children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those who don’t, yet only a quarter of teens report having these conversations.” ~ National Family Partnership
At school, our kids (grades 1 – 5) will be watching a video and doing activities that will spark the conversation about the impact and danger of drugs, cigarettes, and alcohol and the importance of bravery in saying “NO” when it comes to drugs, cigarettes, or alcohol offerings from other kids or adults (and this is the one time when we even allow them to say “HECK NO!” with as much attitude and determination as they can throw) . This is the perfect time for us, as parents, to start the conversation with our kids about who they are, what your expectation and thought about those substances, and most importantly let them know how to make good choices when they are on their own. It is an awesome way to show them how much we care and empower them by letting them know that they always have the super power of the word “NO” to drugs, alcohols, tobaccos and bullies.
Participate in Red Ribbon Week by talking to your kids about making smart choices and have them participate by picking special clothing each day of next week:
Monday, October 23th: Wear red day!
Tuesday, October 24th: Wear camouflage or army colors (green/brown/khaki) and join the “fight” against bullying.
Wednesday, October 25th: Wear orange to celebrate (after all, “Orange you glad to be bully and drug free???” 😉 )
Thursday, October 26th: Disney Dolphin spirit wear or Disney colors (blue and yellow) because Disney Dolphins do not bully or do drugs or alcohols.
All students will receive a Red Ribbon pencil and names in each grade will be drawn throughout the week during lunch for other Red Ribbon items.