Children raised in a home where there is a history of alcoholism or drug abuse have a increased risk of developing alcohol and drug problems themselves. The risk is evident in children as young as 5 years of age (Hawkins, 1989). These children are likely to develop a wide range of physical, psychological, and emotional problems that impact on all aspects of their lives.
The Delaware Association for Children of Alcoholics (DACOA), has recognized problem characteristics in children and has, for the past 11 years, provided prevention and intervention programs throughout the State of Delaware. The "Kids Have Feelings" program is a by-product of our prevention/intervention efforts. It is a blue-print; a curriculum designed to address family alcoholism. The curriculum was developed by two students interning at the DACOA agency; one was a student studying alcohol and drug counseling and the other human services. The program and text were compiled and edited by DACOA staff.
I found compiling this program, with its evaluation component, an enjoyable task.
Particularly impressive was the insight of the interns who worked on this project. Their comments and observations were a refreshing addition to the program. Both students showed great insight when they said, "The most destructive feeling associated with children from dysfunctional homes is the overwhelming feeling of confusion".
The program is available in English and Spanish. It is DACOA's goal to make the program available to children of all cultures and aid educators in their task of helping children survive the effects of family substance abuse.
