Suzy
In Toronto there are approximately 2500 girls struggling with behaviour issues. Yet these girls are overshadowed by boys with similar behaviour. Ironically, the consequences for girls are greater than for boys. Without early intervention, many of these girls will drop out of school and become pregnant as teenagers. Often, they will be mothers to the next generation of boys and girls with serious behavioural problems.
Suzy was on that path at the age of 11. She was referred to the SNAP® Girls Connection with some alarming issues:
- She could not be left alone with younger siblings for fear that she would seriously harm them.
- She bullied younger children into stealing for her.
- She rarely remained in class and was often found roaming the halls.
- Academically, she was several years behind other girls her age.
- She was suspended six times in one school year for aggression towards teachers and classmates.
- She often returned home from school well after dark.
“In many ways Suzy is a very typical client,” explains Erin Rajca, SNAP® Girls Connection Program Manager. “Like most of the families we see, there is a very high level of conflict between Suzy and her mom. She has witnessed violence between her parents, and she herself is often depressed and anxious.”
The SNAP® Girls Connection helps families by equipping girls like Suzy and her parents with skills they need in day-to-day life. Using the SNAP® (Stop Now And Plan) program (developed at Child Development Institute and now an international, award-winning model), the girls develop self-control and problem-solving skills. This helps them avoid conflicts. At the same time, parents learn effective child management skills and become more confident managing their daughter's behaviour.
Although Suzy was at first reluctant to participate, she became attached to the SNAP® Girls Connection staff and Child Development Institute -- often arriving two hours ahead of schedule because she felt safe and accepted. “While Suzy continues to have difficulty, she consistently shares stories about how she has avoided trouble with peers by using her SNAP® skills to cool down rather than get into a physical fight,” says Erin. “She can use her assertive communication skills to say no.”