NCJ Number
170870
Journal
Drugs & Society Volume: 12 Issue: 1/2 Dated: (1998) Pages: 23-37
Date Published
1998
Length
15 pages
Annotation
A demonstration program was implemented in Oklahoma to deal creatively and adaptively with environmental factors that placed Native American children at high risk for later development of substance abuse.
Abstract
The program was specifically designed to build resiliency and protective factors within Native American children in Oklahoma by helping them bond to supportive adults and school. Preschool children enrolled at the Kickapoo Head Start Center were involved in school transition, school readiness, school attendance, and classroom-based prevention activities while attending the Head Start Center and after matriculation into local public schools. Additional early intervention was provided to children already experiencing school adjustment difficulties. Families and Head Start staff were involved in interventions designed to make both home and school environments more supportive. The name "Nee-kon," derived from the Kickapoo word for friend, was chosen for the demonstration program. The Nee-kon program successfully implemented interventions that were needed by and benefitted the target group of preschool children. While the program improved school bonding, individual adjustment, and school environment elements, the program was not comprehensive enough to make a major impact on serious home environment problems facing the target group. 6 references