BC FRIENDS for Life
The FRIENDS program is a school-based anxiety prevention and resiliency skill-building program, sponsored by the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD). Teachers and school educators attend a 1-day certification training which makes them eligible to deliver FRIENDS in the classroom. FRIENDS trainings and workbooks for students are provided by MCFD. There are three program levels available; Fun FRIENDS (K/Gr 1), Child (Gr 4/5) and Youth (Gr 6/7). In addition, FRIENDS has a parent component whereby parents and caregivers are taught ways they can reinforce the FRIENDS program skills at home. Our goal for FRIENDS in BC is to reach as many students as possible, and provide them with life skills that will strengthen resiliency and reduce the risk of developing an anxiety disorder.
If you are:
- A teacher/educator in BC, the Teacher Training & Resources page provides information on training events, FRIENDS program levels, workbook ordering, and FRIENDS resources. You will also find video clips of FRIENDS in the classroom!
- A parent/caregiver, the Parent Program & Resources page provides information on the FRIENDS on-line parent workshop and downloadable resources, led by the F.O.R.C.E. Society for Kids Mental Health. You will also find video clips of FRIENDS at Home!
Welcome
A letter from Kelly Angelius; FRIENDS Program Manager.
What is FRIENDS?
A downloadable one page document highlighting the various components of the BC FRIENDS program.
BC FRIENDS Program History
FRIENDS for Life was developed in Australia and was brought to BC in 2004 as part of the 5 year Child & Youth Mental Health PLan. Currently, FRIENDS is included in the 10 year Mental Health and Substance Abuse Plan for BC; Healthy Minds, Healthy People.
FRIENDS Brochure
A printable FRIENDS brochure
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