Classroom Education
Classroom Education: Our Healthy Dating Curricula
At the core of Take Back the Halls is a simple but powerful idea: when we talk honestly and directly with young people about healthy relationships.
Our classroom-based curriculum goes beyond lessons—it gives teens the skills they need to thrive in healthy relationships. Students learn how to manage emotions, practice empathy, set and respect boundaries, and resolve conflicts in constructive ways. They also gain the tools to recognize early warning signs of teen dating violence—so they can protect themselves and support peers. Because we know teens often turn to each other first, we ensure they are equipped with accurate information, practical strategies, and resources to help friends in need.
Our 10-week, best-practices program is grounded in evidence-informed approaches that address both the risk and protective factors for teen dating violence. Through engaging, interactive sessions, students don’t just absorb information—they shape the conversation. Youth voice is at the center of everything we do, making the program relevant, meaningful, and impactful.
The Core of Our Curriculum: Skills Every Young Person Needs for Healthy Relationships
At Take Back the Halls, we know that healthy relationships don’t just happen — they’re built. That’s why our curriculum gives young people the tools, language, and practice they need to create safe, respectful, and caring connections in their lives.
Emotional Regulation – How We Feel, How We Deal
All feelings are valid — but not all reactions are healthy. Many young people struggle with overwhelming emotions like anger, worry, fear, or jealousy. We help them recognize what they’re feeling, develop healthy coping strategies, and make thoughtful choices that align with their needs, values and goals.
Boundaries – Knowing Yourself
Boundaries are the foundation of every healthy relationship. We guide students in exploring what boundaries matter to them, how to communicate those boundaries clearly, and how to respect the boundaries of others.
Healthy Communication – Asking for What you Want and Need
From expressing feelings, to asking for support, to sharing a boundary, communication is key. We teach and model assertive, respectful, and empathetic communication — skills that strengthen every relationship.
Consent – Consent is Sexy
Teens often tell us that asking for consent feels awkward or “kills the mood.” Through role-plays and activities, we make consent real, relatable, and natural. Students practice asking for and giving consent in their own authentic voices — and learn how to confidently say and respect “no.”
Conflict Resolution – How to Get Along When You’re Not Getting Along
From expressing feelings, to asking for support, to sharing a boundary, communication is key. We teach and model assertive, respectful, and empathetic communication — skills that strengthen every relationship.
Recognizing Warning Signs – Red Flags
Unhealthy and abusive behaviors are often glamorized in media, making it hard for teens to spot red flags. We engage youth in honest conversations about what’s healthy, what’s harmful, and how to recognize the early signs of an unhealthy relationship before it escalates.
How to Help a Friend – Being an Upstander
When something goes wrong, young people often turn to each other first. We equip them with accurate information, practical strategies to help, and clear guidance on when to involve a trusted adult.