Thursday, September 14, 2023

IAA's Humane Education Program for Elementary-aged Children

 



InnerAct Alliance is proud to serve our community with effective evidence-based programs to prevent substance abuse and bullying and promote empathy and critical thinking to help youth succeed in all aspects of their lives. Schools and community organizations in Polk County may contact the agency to request a free Humane Education Program for elementary-aged children offering lessons that incorporate high quality, age-appropriate literature, critical thinking techniques, and activities to reinforce healthy ways to interact with peers and promote animal welfare.

Humane education helps to reduce violence and bullying through use of live or stuffed animals to promote responsible decision-making skills. The way a child treats an animal is often indicative of how they will treat a peer, so combining humane education with character education is key.

InnerAct Alliance’s humane educator, Michelle Bachmeier, reads stories and leads discussion with students about ways to communicate positively with others. Teachable moments and thoughtful discussion inspire children to share their feelings, talk about how everyone makes mistakes sometimes, and practice making wiser choices and be helpful when they encounter hurtful behavior in their classroom, on the playground, or at home.



One of the books used in the program, "Love Me Gently", has recently been voted Best Humane Education Book for Youth by the Association of Professional Humane Educators (APHE). Each child participating in our humane education program will receive a free copy of the "Love Me Gently" storybook to take home, thanks to the generosity of author Lisa Wiehebrink.

InnerAct Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and licensed provider for substance abuse prevention in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties. To schedule a free Humane Education Program for your school or community organization, please contact InnerAct Alliance's humane educator, Michelle Bachmeier, at (863) 802-0777 or email her at:  michelle@inneractalliance.org.



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