GUELPH – Public health and two local school boards are working together to launch a Choices Rewired campaign, meant to help parents and guardians support youth in making healthier choices around screen use and substance use.
Choices Rewired is a partnership between Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) and the Wellington Catholic District School Board (WCDSB).
The campaign involves a website with information about substance use, screen use and available resources for youth needing support.
Families are encouraged to visit choicesrewired.ca to explore the resources and start conversations at home.
Recent findings from the Well-being and Health Youth (WHY) survey, which was created in partnership between WDGPH, UGDSB and WCDSB reveal patterns of screen use and substance use among local youth:
– more than one in five Grade 7 and 8 students who responded said they’ve used cough syrup to get high;
– one in six high school students who responded to the survey reported vaping, with some vape pods containing as much nicotine as 40 cigarettes;
– one in six high school students reported using cannabis.
– for technology, 86 per cent of high school students reported spending more than three hours per day on screens outside of school; and
– nearly a quarter of respondents reported being cyberbullied.
Choicesrewired.ca features educational content encouraging parents and guardians to follow a three-step strategy to support their children:
1. Observe changes in behaviour, mood or interests.
2. Engage in open, judgment-free conversations.
3. Lead by modeling healthy choices and setting boundaries.
UGDSB associate director Brent McDonald said “This campaign reflects the power of collaboration.
“By working together across education and public health, we’re reaching families where they are – with consistent, supportive messaging that helps them navigate real challenges.”
WCDSB executive superintendent Brian Capovilla, said “We’re proud to be part of Choices Rewired.
“It’s a campaign rooted in compassion and connection, and it offers practical strategies that parents can use every day to support their children’s wellbeing.”
