How to Use Medicine Correctly: An SEL Lesson for Grade 1

Medicines are helpful in many ways; they can improve health, prolong life, and ease pain. Incorrect use of medicines, however, can lead to serious issues such as adverse reactions to drugs, continued health problems, or drug abuse.

It is never too early to teach young children, such as first graders, the proper use of medicines to ensure their safety. By teaching first graders how to use medicines correctly with this evidence-based health education lesson, teachers are not only keeping them safe but also equipping them with crucial skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

This lesson begins with a discussion about the forms of medicine, the difference between prescription and non-prescription medicine, and the importance of taking medicines with the supervision of parents, guardians, or doctors.

Next, the class listens to a story featuring a recurring character in the unit named Davey Doddle. Davey continues to drive on the Road to Good Health when he comes by a stop sign. Near the sign, he sees a boy named Hypo Kondrack being cared for by a nurse. He gets out of his car to see if they need any help.

In their conversation, Davey learns something concerning about Hypo. Every time Hypo gets a scratch, he insists on a big bandage, and when he feels even the slightest pain, he thinks he needs a pill. Davey says this isn’t healthy, and Hypo should only take medicine when advised to by a doctor or his parents. He explains that taking too much medicine can cause bodies to become immune to it, making it ineffective when one genuinely needs it.

Davey also warns Hypo about the dangers of using medicines for minor issues, which can lead to the abuse of drugs in the future. Instead, he advises Hypo to exercise, sleep well, eat healthy, and care for his teeth, as these are the best ways to stay well and feel good. If Hypo does these things, he may almost never need any medicine.

After the story, the class talks about the negative thoughts, actions, and feelings that Hypo has and the positive ones he learned from Davey. This conversation further reinforces the importance of using medicines correctly and caring for oneself in other ways.

Reminding first graders that there is a proper time and way to take medicines is crucial. They must ask for instruction and permission from their doctor and parents before taking any medicine. Teaching them about the appropriate use of medicines can help prevent drug abuse and accidental overdoses, avoid potential side effects, and build the foundation for responsible medication use in the future.