Trouble on the Tightrope: In Search of Skateboard Sam

Trouble on the Tightrope is an animated web-based program that aims to improve body image and self-esteem among early adolescents. The premise is that Sam, an adolescent who is about to perform a trapeze act in a carnival as part of a family act, goes missing. Users gain clues to Sam's whereabouts while completing the program modules. The content covers six main areas of puberty, nutrition, physical activity, media literacy, self-esteem, and social relationships. The module contains games or activities that take approximately fifteen minutes to complete. There is an online teacher‹¨«s learning manual that can be used to compliment activities within the program and web-based links are provided to encourage parent-child communication on the health areas reviewed. The program is funded with support by the United States National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, and was developed with input from leading health experts and you g people and teaching staff. It is designed to be used over two to three classroom sessions and children can receive a "certificate of excellence" at completion.