Program recognition
Model Program
Center for Substance Abuse Prevention

PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Botvin LifeSkills Training Elementary School program is a comprehensive, dynamic, and developmentally appropriate substance abuse and violence prevention program designed for upper elementary school students. This highly effective curriculum has been proven to help increase self-esteem, develop healthy attitudes, and improve their knowledge of essential life skills – all of which promote healthy and positive personal development.  

According to a recent study, published in the Journal of Drug Education, more elementary schools in the US choose to use the LST program over all other evidence-based prevention programs.

Program Learning Objectives

• Personal Self-Management Skills
  Students develop skills that enhance self-esteem, develop problem-solving skills, help them reduce stress and anxiety,  and manage anger.
  
  
• General Social Skills
  Students gain skills to meet personal challenges such as overcoming shyness, communicating clearly, building relationships, and avoiding violence.
  
  
• Drug Resistance Skills
  Students build efgfective defenses against pressures to use tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs.

Program Structure

• Grades 3-6
• Three level program consisting of 24 class sessions
   - Level 1 (Grades 3/4) - 8 class sessions
   - Level 2 (Grades 4/5) - 8 class sessions
   - Level 3 (Grades 5/6) - 8 class sessions
• 30-45 minute class sessions
• Taught either on an intensive schedule (two to three times a week) until the program is complete, or on a more extended schedule (once a week for 8 weeks)

Program Components

Each level includes the following materials:

• Comprehensive, easy-to-use Teacher’s Manual
• Student Guide