PDFNJ and PSEG Foundation Engage NJ Students in Substance Use Prevention with Third Grade Life Choices Coloring and Activity Book

MILLBURN, N.J., Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ), with support from the PSEG Foundation, will distribute its Third Grade Life Choices Coloring and Activity Book to 40,000 students across New Jersey this year. These activity books, designed to teach children about healthy living and the importance of avoiding drugs, alcohol, and tobacco, feature a contract that students, parents, and teachers sign as a pledge to make healthy choices.

"Teaching kids to stay drug-free encourages healthier, more supportive relationships with those around them, particularly within their local communities," said Maria Spina, Manager of the PSEG Foundation and Corporate Social Responsibility. "At the PSEG Foundation, we are committed to strengthening communities from the ground up, working to build thriving, successful, and healthy environments for everyone."

The Third Grade Life Choices Coloring and Activity Book combines fun and education with coloring pages, a crossword puzzle, and games that promote good habits like exercise, proper nutrition, and staying drug-free. At its heart is the contract, which students sign as a personal commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Parents and teachers also sign the contract, demonstrating their support and helping to reinforce the program's message.

"We know that 8- and 9-year-olds take signing something like this very seriously," said Angelo Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ. "By putting their names on the pledge, students feel a sense of ownership and accountability for their decisions. It's a powerful way to start conversations about healthy choices at an early age."

This year's program also includes a new poster-sized version of the contract, which will be displayed in classrooms as a daily reminder of the students' commitment to a drug-free life.

The Third Grade Life Choices Coloring and Activity Book is part of a broader effort by PDFNJ to supplement drug prevention and health curricula in New Jersey schools. Supported by a grant from the PSEG Foundation, the program is distributed to hundreds of classrooms statewide. 

Research shows that prevention efforts targeting young students can significantly reduce the risk of substance use later in life. Programs like the Third Grade Life Choices Coloring and Activity Book aim to instill healthy habits and awareness at a critical stage of development.

"When parents, teachers, and students work together, the message resonates even more," Valente added. "Our goal is to give students the foundation they need to live healthier, substance-free lives."

For more information, visit drugfreenj.org/school/school-based-programs/3rd-grade-contract.

Best known for its statewide anti-drug advertising campaign, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is a private not-for-profit coalition of professionals from the communications, corporate and government communities whose collective mission is to reduce demand for illicit drugs in New Jersey through media communication. To date, more than $200 million in broadcast time and print space has been donated to the Partnership's New Jersey campaign, making it the largest public service advertising campaign in New Jersey's history. Since its inception the Partnership has garnered 230 advertising and public relations awards from national, regional and statewide media organizations.

SOURCE Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey