Intervention Activities for At-Risk Youth – eHow – 14 Dec 2010

Source: http://www.ehow.com/list_7641397_intervention-activities-atrisk-youth.html

Programs for at-risk youth focus on building the teens' self-confidence, working with their parents and promoting positive interaction with their peer groups. Children who are involved in after-school activities are less likely to smoke, drink, use drugs or engage in sexual activity. According to the Ada County, Idaho, Sheriff's Department, juvenile incarceration costs can top $45,000 annually, while positive, alternative activities for at-risk youths cost $480 per year (as of 2010). Successful intervention programs combine the use of two or more activities to engage as many youths as possible.

Sports

  After-school sports and recreation programs promote self-esteem and working with others. Involvement in recreational activities can improve school attendance and grades. Little League and other city league opportunities, informal games and after-school programs based out of schools all offer opportunities for structured sports activities. Sports involvement can provide constructive activities, offer positive adult mentoring and role models and encourage self-esteem in at-risk youth.

Tutoring

  At-risk youth who struggle with grades need immediate scholastic help. Tutoring promotes one-on-one or small group classes that not only provides academic assistance but offers informal mentoring services from an older student or teacher. Having a tutor can improve student grades and boost self-esteem and confidence for students who struggle with academic performance.

Arts

  Most youths enjoy the opportunity to express their creativity through art. For at-risk youth, a visual and performing arts program can increase the student's awareness and promote positive thinking. Drama, music, dance, arts and crafts all offer hands-on ways that students can engage in healthy activities. As students participate in creative activities and see their finished products and performances, self-confidence for at-risk youth will improve.

Science and Math

  Science and math programs can improve self-esteem, increase teamwork and promote a new appreciation for science or math. Other intervention activities can be as simple as offering extra academic support for students struggling in school. A program such as the Exxon Mobile Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp offers a free program that promotes the value of science and math. Students take field trips and work on lab projects while meeting with scientists, medical personnel and others in technology-related fields. The program promotes intelligence as a value for at-risk youth and encourages them to pursue careers in technological fields.

Vocational

  Organizations such as the Job Corps offer specific vocational training for at-risk youth. Juveniles who may not have even realized what services are available can attend job and career training. A wide variety of classes are offered to spark the interest of young people. Job Corps provides free services toward a high school diploma or GED, career training and getting a job. Life skills classes round out the student's classes, which helps at-risk youth with day-to-day practical skills.

Specific Programs

  Some schools offer specific workbooks and programs designed to target high-risk behaviors, such as violence and gang activity. These programs, used alone or in conjunction with other services, offer a focused look at the issue. Small groups effectively offer youths the opportunity to discuss issues in a non-threatening environment, sometimes during the school day.