Implementation of the
FRIENDS-program in Finnish
schools – experiences and
researchThe 10th Nordic Public Health Conference,
25.8.2011
Friends-session 15.45-17.15
Friends-planner Nina Aartokallio
Children of the Station
Children of the Station
Basic task of Children of the Station is to further the healthy growth of the youth as well as to prevent social exclusion, violence, crime and misuse of intoxicants.
Our organization aims to enhance the well-being of children, youth and families.
Background
Why do we need Friends-programs?
In Finland about 15 to 20 % of school-aged children suffer from some kind of mental disorder
Social exclusion, loneliness, risky behavior, eating disorders, not enjoying school etc. are our actual concerns
Friends-program in Finland
Two full-time workers – running trainings in Finnish and Swedish (about 20 per year)
At the moment Friends for children (2006) and Friends for youth (2008)
Fun Friends (age 4-7) pilot in 2012.
Children of the Station has trained about 1850 professionals working in schools and with youth
Over 17 000 pupils have participated in the program since 2006
Friends-program in Finland
Used in classroom setting in order to avoid stigmatization
Exploiting the multioccupational knowledge: teachers, school nurses, school psychologists, social workers, youth leaders etc.
Also used with immigrant pupils and 10th-graders
Research made in Finland
In co-operation with National Institute of Health and Welfare (2006-2007).
- The aim was to test how the program fits into Finnish school system and to measure the prevalence of pupils´ anxiety and depression symptoms.
Tiippana (2009) examined the effect of the Friends-program on depression, anxiety and self-esteem (total of 610 youngsters).
Experiences and feedback
Trainers have been satisfied with our one-day training and materials – easy to use
Some schools have Friends as a part of the curriculum
Amount of time in classroom and parental involvement
Co-operation partners and networks are important
Future plans and goals
All Friends-programs available in Finnish and Swedish
Increase the amount of participating schools
Secure funding
More research in Finland
More co-operation in Finland and internationally
Pupil:
” I’ve learnt to believe in myself. In some exciting
situations I’ve learnt to use helpful thoughts”
Teacher:
“Attitude towards my students changed as I gained
more knowledge about my pupils. I learnt to see
their individual strenghts.”
Parent:
“It’s important for the adolescents to notice that
others have the similar feelings of shame or
embarrassment and that they’re not by themselves
with their feelings. “
Thank you!
Contact information:
• Friends-planner Nina Aartokallio
– Phone number +358 503372165
• www.asemanlapset.fi
Top Related