Teacher programs

“My mother was a teacher, coach and administrator so I grew up learning about the struggles and rewards of the profession.  I have two goals in any teacher program – make them laugh and provide information that they can use.” 

What Were You Thinking? Communicating with Teens About Sensitive Topics

KEYNOTE

Brain, Behavior and Addiction

WORKSHOP

What's So Funny?

COMEDY SHOW

What Were You Thinking?  Communicating With Teens About Sensitive Topics

Target Event

Professional Conferences,
Teacher In-Service

Ideal Audience Size

50+

Duration

60 minutes plus Q&A

On any given day, the average teen may be dealing with mood instability (e.g., anxiety or depression), mild head injuries (e.g. concussion) or substance abuse. These issues are complicated by the fact that the teen years are an intense period of social, emotional and neurological development. This comedic, yet content-rich program focuses on adolescent brain development and how to communicate this information effectively. Dr. Bellace will not only present information on brain development in a fun way, but also discuss how adults can integrate this information into their everyday interactions with teens. Typically, the program runs for 60 minutes plus time for Q&A.

Outcomes

  • Participants should understand how to more effectively communicate with teens around sensitive topics (e.g. failure and rejection).
  • Participants should understand some of the recent research on adolescent brain development and how it might impact their classroom.
  • Participants should understand some of the current research on resilience and how to encourage greater resilience among students.
  • Participants should have fun and enjoy a positive message.

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Brain, Behavior and Addiction

Target Event

Professional Conferences,
Teacher In-Service

Ideal Audience Size

50+

Duration

60 minutes plus Q&A

The adolescent brain is uniquely vulnerable to risk-taking and addiction, both potential outcomes of binge drinking and drug use.  The drug of choice for young people remains alcohol – nearly a quarter of 12th graders reported binge drinking in the past month (Monitoring the Future Survey, 2010).  However, there has been a recent increase in teen use of marijuana and prescription drugs.  Neuroscientists have started to develop a clear understanding of the cognitive impact of adolescent binge drinking and drug use.  In this workshop, teachers will be presented with this information to help support young people in making healthy choices.

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What’s So Funny?

Target Event

Comedy Night, Conference Entertainment

Ideal Audience Size

50-500

Duration

90 minutes

 What’s So Funny” is an inspirational stand-up comedy show that uses laughter to uplight and entertain teachers and staff.  The show includes Dr. Matt Bellace and two other nationally touring stand-up comedians.  Past performers have included comedians Joe Matarese, Ted Alexandro and many more. 

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