"Catch the Curve" is specifically targeted to 5th graders or children being screened for the first time. The following items highlight some of the major focus and goals of the video;1. 97% of the children viewing the video will not have scoliosis, and the majority of kids with scoliosis will not be treated. Therefore, at this point we are just trying to give them the basic information they need in an upbeat manner to give them a positive screening experience.
2. Our goal is to help the screener be more efficient and effective by emotionally preparing the students to participate; teaching the students how to bend over to be screened; showing them what to wear and what the screening will look like; and giving positive support to the 3-5% of kids who may be referred on.
3. The video is only 10 minutes long in order to keep the students' attention.
4. Our objective at this point is just to say that some children may need treatment, not to educate them about braces, or surgery.
5. We intentionally left out the scoliometer, a device commonly used for screening, because many programs do not use them, and if they do use it, it is often only during a second confirmation screening. Therefore, the majority of the kids viewing the video will never see a scoliometer.
6. We use the animated skeleton and x-rays to show the look and effects of scoliosis.
7. The animal is in the video as an entertaining way to reinforce a positive message by saying that abnormal spinal curves is a part of nature. We also wanted to get the message across about the need for screening and the potential severity of the condition without frightening the children.There is an x-ray briefly shown in the classroom scene indicating that the hedgehog may have kyphoscoliosis. Explaining the distinctions about various types of spinal curves is premature for this general audience at this point in time, and would add more time and distraction.
8. School screening programs vary by state and district across the country in terms of who, when and how children are screened. This video is not a training video, nor is it intended to promote a particular method of screening. We believe that early detection and treatment is important, and that children should be informed and prepared before they are screened.
9. We hope your children enjoy the video and you find it helpful. A DVD copy of "Catch the Curve" is available Free of Charge with a shipping and handling fee of $10. To request a copy go to Join the Campaign! and check off the request box. |