SNAP (Stop Now And Plan)

What is SNAP®?

SNAP®, which stands for STOP NOW AND PLAN, is an evidence-based, cognitive-behavioral model powered by the minds at Child Development Institute (CDI). SNAP® helps troubled children and their parents learn how to effectively manage their emotions and ‘keep problems small’.

The gender-sensitive SNAP® program is designed for children ages 6-11 who are engaging in aggressive, anti-social behavior and/or have come into contact with authority figures at school or in the community. Experienced and highly trained staff work with each family to assess challenges and problems and develop an action plan. Children and families may participate in the following components, with the goal of preventing future anti-social behavior and reducing the chances of conflict with family, peers and authority figures.

SNAP® Components

SNAP® Groups
Children attend gender-specific weekly group sessions for 13 weeks. They learn how to use SNAP® in different situations through engaging activities including, discussions, role-playing and interactive games. A variety of topics, including dealing with angry thoughts and feelings, self-control, problem solving and bullying are addressed.

SNAP® Parenting Group
The parent group meets concurrently with the SNAP® children’s group. Parents learn effective child management and SNAP® strategies. The group also provides parents with an opportunity to make connections with other parents facing similar challenges.

SNAP® Sibling Group
The sibling group meets concurrently with the SNAP® children and parent groups. Staff make the most of their time with siblings and activities range from tutoring, mentoring and games to teaching siblings simple concepts of SNAP® that ensures all family members are on the same path towards a better family atmosphere.  

SNAP® In Schools
Schools are selected based on interest and availability. These group sessions take place in the classroom setting during school hours. The program generally requires 45 minutes to one hour, and can accommodate anywhere from a minimum of five students up to 30 per session. If you are interested in learning more about SNAP® or how to bring the program to your child’s school, contact YCC or your child’s school counselor. In the 2018 – 2019 school year SNAP® will expand to St. Johns County.

Referrals and Costs

SNAP® services are completely free to youth and their families! The SNAP® program is funded through the Department of Juvenile Justice.

In addition to providing services free, SNAP® families are fed healthy meals and snacks at each SNAP® session. Sibling care may be provided if needed at no charge. 

Participants will attend a graduation ceremony upon the completion of the 13-week group cycle. 

Referrals can be made at any time by anyone! Please contact the SNAP representative for your county.
Duval County SNAP Lead: Ta-Naia Conyers – tconyers@ycc.org
St. John’s County SNAP Supervisor: Hannah Hampton – hhampton@ycc.org

Get Involved

Sponsors and volunteers are also needed! Volunteer duties include filming role plays, conducting sibling groups, preparing meals and assisting with set-up/take-down. Sponsors are needed to help keep the prize box full, provide parent door-prizes and assist with meals.

About SNAP®

SNAP® was developed by Child Development Institute, an accredited children’s mental health organization in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, in 1985 as an intervention program for boys under 12 in conflict with the law. Since then, the program has grown and evolved into an internationally recognized model for teaching troubled children and their parents effective emotion-regulation, self-control and problem-solving. Today, SNAP® offers gender specific programs for children ages 6-11. The primary goal of SNAP® is to keep children in school and out of trouble.

SNAP® is delivered internationally through licensed SNAP® Affiliates. For more information, please visit www.stopnowandplan.com.

Who should attend SNAP®?

Children ages 6-11 experiencing behavioral problems at home, at school, with persons in authority, and in the community are referred to these programs. Presenting concerns may include:

• Physically aggressive behavior
• Angry outbursts
• Verbally aggressive or defiant behavior
• Lacks self-control and problem solving skills
• Has difficulty making and maintaining healthy relationships
• Stealing
• Bullies others
• Vandalizes or damages property

Does SNAP® work?

Research continues to show the SNAP® program:
Leads to improved life outcomes for children:
• Fewer arguments at home
• Less school violence and bullying
• More friends
• Fewer interactions with school principals
• Improves parent-child relationships and emotional states
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Reduced rates of depression
• Increased overall happiness
• Improved self-confidence

Changes development of the child’s brain
• Increasing activity in areas responsible for cognitive control and self-regulation

Speak with someone about SNAP®

Please fill out the form below and one of our staff members will contact you regarding SNAP®. If this is a medical or mental health emergency, please dial 911.

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