SCAN Program Summary

A Prevention Program of Kids First Child Advocacy Center of the 9th Judical District

SCAN (Stop Child Abuse & Neglect) is a program started by the National Children's Advocacy Center in Alabama and has become the largest school-based prevention program in the state of Alabama. SCAN was created in hopes of protecting children by increasing their knowledge and skills in the area of child abuse, increasing reporting numbers and referring children who disclose to appropriate service (teachers, school counselors, etc.) providers.

SCAN is presented to children in grades K, 1, 3, 5 and 7 and will be presented to children in all four counties we serve. The program's primary message is "SAY NO, GET AWAY, TELL SOMEONE." Children in kindergarten and first grade participate in a puppet show which depicts the puppets having bullying, neglect, physical and sexual abuse problems. Kids learn many children, like themselves, experience very serious problems and recover.

Third and Fifth grade students participate in a program called "Break the Silence" which encompasses a wide array of issues for children their age including bullying, assertiveness and sexual abuse. These children are shown a video dealing with each of these issues with follow-up discussion, role play and handouts.

"From the Shadows" is the program presented to seventh graders, and it too is video based along with discussion, role play and handouts. This age group will discuss issues with conflict and communication within the family as sexual abuse.

SCAN also teaches children about community resources and professionals whom they can talk to about any problems. After completing this program, children will be less vulnerable to child abuse because they are exposed to personal safety lessons. To date we have served 5,026 children residing in the Ninth Judical District.