15+   — Make Time to Listen; Take Time to Talk

The "15+ - Make Time to Listen; Take Time to Talk" campaign has been adopted by USD 253 and the Emporia community for the 2007-08 school year. The goal of the campaign is to provide practical guidance for parents and other caring adults on ways that they can strengthen the bonds with their children by setting aside a minimum of 15 minutes daily to listen and talk with them.

Research has shown that children whose parents are highly involved with them achieve higher levels of education, reach higher career goals and have better skills in dealing with others. By spending time with their children, both talking AND listening, parents can help prevent risky behaviors such as alcohol, tobacco and other drug use, juvenile violence and crime, and sexual activity.

Throughout the 2007-08 school year messages will be sent both through the schools and community that will discuss different topics related to the campaign. Each will focus on strengthening skills and providing recommendations to parents and caregivers on how to set aside a minimum of 15 minutes of undivided time daily with a child to discuss timely and important issues.

Every community member is asked to participate in this campaign to demonstrate our goal of helping our youth grow to be healthy, productive adults.