Beyond the Check In Empowering Parent-Student Dialogues About Health Parent and Educator Resources

Beyond the Check-In

Beyond the Check-In is a resource hub designed to help parents, educators and schools navigate the complexities of student health — with practical tools, compassionate support and evidence-based guidance.

Health and well-being isn’t a one-time conversation — and “checking in” is just the beginning. These resources will help caregivers, teachers and other trusted adults take meaningful next steps.

Explore short videos, downloadable tools and real-world stories that inspire deeper understanding and action.

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Resources for Parents & Caregivers

Raising a child today can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to their emotional and mental well-being.

You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need a place to start.

Use the resources in this section to have meaningful conversations, recognize signs of struggle, and build trust that lasts.

Parent and child talking on a couch

“I learned how to tailor conversations about relationships and safety in ways that make sense for my child’s developmental level.”

— Parent from Miami, FL

Parent Conversation Starters

Download this free resource to start meaningful, age-appropriate conversations with your child around social health, mental health and personal safety. Each topic includes discussion prompts and tips to guide open, judgment-free dialogue.

Elementary School (PDF)
Middle School (PDF)
High School (PDF)
Health Ed 101 Parent Flyer
Health Ed 101 Parent Flyer

This free resource gives an overview of what students learn in health education and why it matters. It helps families understand the goals, topics and benefits of health education while addressing common questions about health education class.

Select Flyer (PDF)

“I feel more confident knowing that it’s okay if these conversations are uncomfortable — what matters is showing up and trying.”

— Parent from Seattle, WA

Video Resources

Parent Video: Full Version

In “Empowering Parent-Student Dialogues About Health,” parents and caregivers will find practical tips for supporting their child’s health education and building media literacy at home. Experts explore how media influences adolescent decision-making and offer strategies for fostering open, informed conversations about mental, social and personal health.

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Select your child’s grade level below to view parent video on YouTube:

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Resources for Educators

You see your students every day — and often notice the first signs when something’s off. And because you know even small moments can shift a student’s life, you want to make those moments count.

The resources in this section provide practical strategies to support student mental health without needing to be a mental health expert.

Teacher talking to students outside
Social Media Toolkit

This toolkit promotes the Beyond the Check-in resources, offering ready-to-use posts to help start meaningful conversations about social, mental and personal health. Use the toolkit to raise awareness, encourage dialogue, and empower parents and caregivers to connect with their children.

What Works in Schools

This document highlights the CDC’s What Works in Schools framework, guiding educators, administrators and school staff in promoting adolescent health and well-being through quality health education, health services and safe, supportive environments.

Health Ed 101 Parent Flyer
Health Education in Schools 101

This resource is a parent-friendly overview of what students learn in health education and why it matters. It helps families understand the goals, topics and benefits of health education while addressing common questions about health education class.

Video Resources

Educator Videos

These videos explore how media literacy can strengthen health education, equipping teachers with strategies to help students navigate social, mental and personal health topics with confidence.

Hear from experts at SHAPE America, Cairn Guidance, Pinnacle Partnerships and NAMLE as they share practical approaches for supporting diverse learners and fostering critical thinking about media’s impact on health.

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Select grade level to access free educator video in the SHAPE America Catalog:

Watch your grade-level video to earn SHAPE America Contact Hours (SACH)

This opportunity was developed by SHAPE America and funded by way of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $500,000 that is 100% funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.