As winter begins, we’re reminded of the simple joys of childhood. And one of our favorites is building a snowman. What starts as a single snowball can grow into something much bigger—a perfect metaphor for how we can build the foundations of meaningful conversations.

October 23-31 is Red Ribbon Week, and we want to shine a spotlight on what’s working to keep kids alcohol- and substance-free. Alcohol consumption among America’s teens is at or near record low levels, so this Red Ribbon Week we want to encourage you to keep doing these 5 things, because what you’re doing is working!

Jessica Matheson, 2022 SHAPE America National Health Education Teacher of the Year, provide some practical tips that will help you stay optimistic and forward thinking throughout the school year.

It’s time to get kids back to school! Helping your kids transition from their “summer-selves” to their “student-selves” involves using their summer experiences to shape the ways they move forward.

Parents are the number one influence on their kids’ decision to drink—or not drink—alcohol, and this influence goes beyond just having those important conversations about the dangers of underage drinking. As kids develop and learn to make decisions for themselves, what they see from parents, caregivers, and other trusted adults matters. Explore these ways to model responsibility with your kids if you choose to drink.