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Educating Students About Grown-Up Topics While drug use and physical growth and development may be difficult subject matters to discuss with fifth graders, it's vital knowledge they need to carry them through middle school and beyond. [PHOTO] The Student Health Awareness Center at CentraState offers a variety of programs to help educate students from local schools. Mary Plaine, RN, CSN, Gables Elementary School nurse, says that programs like the substance awareness prevention seminar and the growth and development curriculum offered at the Student Health Awareness Center (SHAC) at CentraState Medical Center help build the foundations necessary to educate youth about these important issues. "Many youngsters may be familiar with the topic of drugs and growth and development, but often don't know all the facts," Plaine says. "I was extremely impressed with the program and information provided by the SHAC. Because the presentations were so professional, the students were very attentive and displayed maturity while learning about these life matters. It was phenomenal." KNOWLEDGE IS POWER Students are continually being pressured with adult decisions about issues such as drugs and sex. Ensuring they have the knowledge base to understand consequences and dangers is key to empowering informed choices. "I would highly recommend any school system or organization take advantage of these programs," Plaine says. "They enhance curriculum and add so much personal information for students in an atmosphere that is mature and worthwhile." For more information about programs at the SHAC, call (732) 308-1850. Camping with CentraState Summer is almost here. The weather is warm and pleasant. School is just about finished for another year. Then comes the lament, "Mom, I'm bored…I don't have anything to do!" At CentraState Medical Center, we have some solutions. Our renowned Student Health Awareness Center and CentraState Fitness & Wellness Center have combined "camps" to provide a couple of weeks of fun, fitness and education for your children in 5th through 8th grade. All camps run Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The Magic and Mysteries of the Human Body July 16–20 Join our health educators for an in-depth look at the human body— from cells to systems and beyond! Spend five mornings in the Student Health Awareness Center learning about the intricacies of our magnificent bodies. Visit select hospital departments and learn from experts in their field, such as X-ray and Physical Therapy. Enjoy afternoons in the CentraState Fitness and Wellness Center, playing sports, swimming, and just having fun. Leadership Academy Girls: July 30–Aug. 3 Boys: Aug. 13–17 It takes a lot to be a leader. Our educators at the Student Health Awareness Center will spend mornings helping your child develop his or her potential while exploring communication skills, anger management, self esteem, and more in an effort to maximize inherent qualities. Afternoons are spent in the Fitness Center.