girls

3rd edition

guide for

Welcome to Guide for Girls................ 1 Girl Power............................................. 4 Feeling Fine......................................... 16 All About Relationships.................... 36 Working On It....................................... 74 Getting Involved and Giving Back...... 98 Resources in Nova Scotia............. 114

This third edition of Guide for Girls was published by the Advisory Council on the Status of Women to celebrate International Day of the Girl on October 11th. This book was created especially for girls throughout Nova Scotia. We hope you enjoy this book. Though it is the third edition, if you have ideas or opinions about it that you would like to share, please email us at women@gov.ns.ca. We are looking forward hearing from you.

A Note about websites and addresses When we created the book, we reviewed every website listed and we checked the addresses. They were fine then, but may have changed by the time you read this. If you visit a website and it has changed, especially if it has been taken down or has become something quite different and unpleasant, we would appreciate hearing from you at the email address above. You can also visit our website to find more links for girls at www.women.gov.ns.ca.

WELCOME TO

for girls

Here, girls can explore different areas of life like school, work, friends, family, community and relationships. No matter who you are, where you come from, and what your goals are in lifethis book is for you. We all learn and absorb information in our own way. Guide for Girls has information, games, reflection questions, and stories that may guide you through lifes journey. This book can be used as a journal, and as a reference guide to the many resources and services available for you throughout Nova Scotia.

This book belongs to you. Feel free to write in it

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

1. Open it up! This book is made for you! Its yours and only yours! 2. Check things out. Read the sections and find the information you need. 3. Write or draw your thoughts. Ask questions. Look for answers. 4. Scribble and mark anywhere and everywhere. Its your book, you can do whatever you want with it! 5. Post photos... rip out pages...turn pages into posters Itll remind you about how fun and awesome it is to be a girl. 6. Discover and express yourself. Explore your culture and your historyand where you want to be in the future. 7. Be awesome. 8. Be a girl. 9.

Be You

notes

GIRL POWER
The power of being a girl

IS DICOVERING, expressing
As you go through life's journey

and pursuing who you are!

you have a voice.

Celebrate what makes us different and similar. celebrate OUR diversity!

know you are valuable. You are unique.

CELEBRATING GIRLS
According to Statistics Canada, over 67,435 girls ages 14 and younger were living in Nova Scotia in 2011. Each one of you are special. You can discover yourself by exploring different activities such as participating in school, sports, art, music and nature.
Since the end of the 19th century, Canadian women have been working to establish equality and equity between genders. Women have not always experienced equality in the areas of politics, the law, the economy, and even within families and communities. Through countless campaigns and activism, girls and women are now able to fully participate and lead in many areas of society. In 2013, we celebrate a historical moment in Canadian politics we have six female Premiers! More women of all ages are attending university and college, and more are working in different areas such as business, government, the not-for-profit sector, education, and law. Women and girls also continue to work and gain momentum in the fields of science, technology, trades, engineering, and math. But we need you to keep the momentum going! So be free to discover who you are, and explore the many different things that you like and enjoy doing.

YWCA Canada has m any resources for girls incl ud

n that speaks about the rights of girls at home, at schoo l, and at work (ywcacanada .ca/data/ documents/00000083.p df ). If you want more infor mation, check out their website www.ywcacanada.ca

A Girl s Guide to Know ing Her Rights a publicatio

ing:

Guide for Girls is here to support you in reaching your potential as you continue on your lifes journey.

you are

VALUABLE

As girls, we have value and we can celebrate who we are. Life is all about discovery and acceptance of ourselves and of others. Think positive! You are wonderful in so many ways both inside and out.

Celebrate being a girl!

I AM special because...
________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

I CAN DO MANY THINGS LIKE...

________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

I LIKE AND ENJOY...

________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

you have a voice express yourself welcome others appreciate our differences

Every girl has a voice!

Some may be soft, some may be loud, some may use words, some may use art, some may use music, some may dance... but we all have a way to express ourselves and share whats in our hearts and our minds.

discover your expression share your stories be positive stand up for what is right

draw or paste an image of how you express yourself!

What are you passionate about? ________________________ ________________________ ________________________ ________________________

What are ways you can share whats on your mind? __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________

Celebrate
Diversity describes the many differences and similarities that exist among people. It is what makes each of us special and unique. Diversity includes characteristics that are seen, such as our race, ethnicity, colour, language, and sex. But it also includes characteristics that are not so obvious, such as our gender, sexual orientation, age, ability or disability, religion, political belief, cultural heritage, family background, social class, education, and geographic origin. It takes time and curiosity to get to know ourselves and others well. It also takes time and effort to respect and appreciate our differences and similarities.

Post a photo of yourself, friends, or family.

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Diversity
I am unique because...

My friends and family are diverse because...

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Nova Scotias Cultural Diversity

Nova Scotia is home to people from all over the world. Early cultures found in Nova Scotia include Mikmaq, our founding people, and Acadian, African Nova Scotian, and Gaels, as well as English, German, Scottish, Irish, and American.

Twenty-five million people in North America can trace their families back to Nova Scotia during the past 400 years.1

To find out more about Nova Scotias rich cultural heritage, check out the following websites and learn more about our diversity:
Aboriginal Affairs Acadian Affairs Gaelic Affairs www.novascotia.ca/abor www.gov.ns.ca/acadian/en/index.htm www.ansa.novascotia.ca www.gov.ns.ca/oga

African Nova Scotian Affairs

Nova Scotia Communities, www.novascotia.ca/cch Culture and Heritage Nova Scotia Virtual Archives Office of Immigration www.gov.ns.ca/nsarm/virtual www.novascotiaimmigration.ca

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1 Source: NS Genealogy (accessed June 11, 2013) www.gov.ns.ca/nsarm/genealogy.asp

Canada is a nation of nations, with many immigrants calling it their new home.
This is part of our cultural, ethnic, and linguistic diversity. Immigrants to Canada come from all over the world and together we add to the rich diversity of our communities.

Nova Scotia continues to welcome immigrants from all over the world. When did you or your ancestors arrive? Between 2005 and 2009, here is a list of the top ten countries where immigrant children to Nova Scotia were born: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 United Kingdom China United States of America United Arab Emirates Iran Philippines Saudi Arabia Kuwait Egypt Taiwan2

2 Source: NS Office of Immigration Immigrant Children in Nova Scotia 2005-2009 (accessed June 11, 2013) http://immigration.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/immigration%20facts-children-2010-Dec21.pdf

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In Nova Scotia, our diversity is protected through our human rights, both through the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms ( www.laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/Const/page-15.html) and the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act ( www.humanrights.gov.ns.ca/legislation).

Did you know that in Nova Scotia, the following human rights are protected under law? Age Race Colour Religion Creed Ethnic, national or aboriginal origin Sex - including pregnancy and breastfeeding - pay equity Sexual orientation Gender identity and gender expression Physical disability Mental disability Family status Marital status Source of income Irrational fear of contracting an illness or disease Association with protected groups or individuals Political belief, affiliation or activity.

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The law, through the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act, prohibits harassment and discrimination based on these characteristics. For more information about human rights, visit the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission www.humanrights.gov.ns.ca.

You can also check out other websites for specific information about
Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation www.youthproject.ns.ca Youth Project Girls and Women Advisory Council on the Status of Women www.women.gov.ns.ca www.girlsactionfoundation.ca Girls Action Foundation Mental Health Teen Mental Health www.teenmentalhealth.org

Multiculturalism Multicultural Association of Nova Scotia www.mans.ns.ca www.centrefordiversity.ca Canadian Centre for Diversity Persons with Disabilities Disabled Persons Commission www.disability.novascotia.ca www.dawncanada.net DAWN Canada Religion Canadas Office of Religious Freedom www.international.gc.ca/ religious_freedom-liberte_de_religion/index.aspx

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WELCOME TO

THE GIRLS GUIDE TO

feeling fine

16

THINK ABOUT

THIS QUESTION!
WHAT DOES WELL-BEING

MEAN TO YOU?

WHEN DO YOU FEEL

HEALTHY, ENERGETIC, HAPPY?

When youre healthy, you live well, look well and feel well. There are many things that influence our health.
write down what makes you happy and healthy!

Health is important to everyone. Being healthy is not just about not being sick. Its much more than that. Being healthy includes caring for our physical bodies, how we feel and think, the situations we find ourselves in, the diversity of who we are (see page 10), our relationships with others, and the environments that we live in. The interactions of all of these factors affect our health. Researchers have called these interactions the social determinants of health. To find out more information, you can visit this website www.thecanadianfacts.org.

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Our physical bodies

Our bodies have different parts and systems that are inter-connected and have specific functions. Our physical bodies also change as we develop and grow older.

Taking care of our bodies is important to being healthy.

There are many ways we can take care of our bodies including the following activities:

Eat healthy and well

Drink lots of water

Be active

Get enough sleep

Practise good hygiene

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eating healthy and well

What we eat is absorbed by our bodies, and affects our health. When we eat healthy and well, we can

have more energy have stronger muscles and bones have a healthy body weight be sick less have better health overall feel and look great

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The plan for a healthier Nova Scotia called Thrive! refers to the Eating Well with Canadas Food Guide, which describes the amounts and types of foods we need to get the right balance of nutrients and energy our bodies need.
For girls, the recommended There are Food Guide four food servings groups within for each the Food Guide: day are vegetables & fruits 7 servings grain products meat & alternatives milk & alternatives 1 cup of leafy vegetables or 1 fruit 6 servings 1 slice of bread or cup of cooked pasta or couscous

Here are examples of one serving from each food group:

Note: 1 cup = 250 mL

2 servings

3 to 4 servings

2 eggs or cup of cooked fish, shellfish, poultry, or lean meat

1 cup of milk or soy milk, or 50 g of cheese

For more information about Canadas Food Guide, visit: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/food-guide-aliment/index-eng.php

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What are your favourite foods?

All food is great in moderation! What are your favourite snacks?

VEGANS VEGANS AND AND VEGETARIANS VEGETARIANS

A vegetarian is someone who does not eat meat, but may still eat fish and eggs for protein. A vegan is someone who does not eat anything that is produced from an animal, including fish, eggs, meat, dairy (like milk and cheese), and honey. If your diet is vegetarian or vegan, you may need supplements like iron and calcium to ensure you have all the nutrients your body needs. For more information, you can speak with a health professional, such as your family doctor or a dietician.

It is also important to drink plenty of water every day, especially when the weather is hot and when you are very active. Your body needs water to stay hydrated.

How many glasses of water do you drink every day?

Did you know that there are community gardens in Nova Scotia? You can check out this website to locate the community garden nearest you www.nsen.ca/i_communitygardens. php

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B EI N G TI VE C A

Our bodies are meant to move.

Every teenager needs at least 60 minutes of physical activity during the day. Its about moving a lot daily and not necessarily about training as an athlete.
Being physically active is one of the best things you can do to feel good and be healthy. Being active can also improve concentration and learning to help you at school. You dont have to give up the computer, your video games, or smartphones to be active. Limiting the use of technology a few hours a day can help you find more time to be active. Chances are, your friends who are having fun in recreation, sports, and outdoors are not spending all of their time playing online. To be active, you dont have to lose out on time with friends either. Look for a friend in your neighborhood or school who would like to do an activity with you. Activities are more fun when shared with friends.

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TIVE B

EI N

G H EA Y LTH

Try different physical activities until you find the ones you consider most fun.
There are so many to choose fromwalk or cycle to school, dance in the bedroom to your favourite music, try sports during school lunch period, swim at a supervised beach, skate on a pond with your family, or follow a yoga video online. Check with the school, municipal recreation department or youth groups in your area for programs or facilities like a gym, pool, track or trail. It can sometimes feel uncomfortable doing activities around certain people. You may feel unsure about your body and clothing. You may worry others will disapprove of the activity you like. Being a girl does not have to limit what activities you choose or how you participate. You dont need to look a certain way to join in. The more you move, the more confident you will become with the way your body looks, moves and feels. When you find an activity you enjoy, it is just one part of who you are; it doesnt define everything that you are. You may believe you dont have enough physical skills or the ability to learn new skills. Work on small goals, one after another, and soon you will have more experience to help you be confident and do well. There are people who can helpteachers and program volunteers in schools, program leaders in community organizations or perhaps a family member. The key is to find an activity that you find most fun that allows you to move around everyday.

What physical activities do you enjoy doing?

BE

I N G AC

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STUFF
Youre not alone!
Our bodies change as we grow older. For most girls, this includes developing breasts and getting your period. Safe and trusted family members and health professionals can guide you as you navigate through these kinds of girl stuff such as purchasing the right size bra, using female care products, and getting advise from medical professionals about decisions you need to make such as your sexual health.

girl

It may feel a little awkward, but dont worry. T here are safe and trusted adults who can help you go through these transitions.

You are not alone!

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e get sic w n e h k W Getting sick is normal.

One way that people get sick is through germs which are microscopic and hard to see. They can creep into your system without you noticing. Often times, germs spread through the air through sneezes and coughs, and through bodily fluids. One of the best ways to protect your body is to keep your immune system strong by eating well, drinking enough water, staying physically active and getting enough sleep. These healthy habits allow your body to fight germs. Another way you can prevent getting sick is keeping good personal hygienelike showering or bathing regularly, brushing your teeth, and washing your hands often.
Here is something to consider:

Osteoporosis causes bones to break easily, especially when you get older. The most important time for girls to build strong bones is between the ages of 16 and 20, as almost half of the adult skeleton is formed during the teen years. So take action now to prevent osteoporosis later. Get lots of exercise, such as walking and dancing and running. Include calcium in your diet, from foods such as milk, cheese, and leafy green vegetables.

OSTEOPOROSIS

Anemia can make you feel tired and cranky, because your blood does not carry enough oxygen to the rest of your body. The most common cause of anemia is not having enough iron. Your body needs iron to make hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that gives the red color to blood. It carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Anemia has three main causes: blood loss, lack of red blood cell production, and high rates of red blood cell destruction. To have lots of energy and prevent anemia, eat lots of foods that contain iron and B vitamins, such as green vegetables and seafood.

ANEMIA

25

There are ways to prevent diseases, and medical professionals are there to help determine ways for people to get better such as prescribing medicine to address illnesses.

when wer p l e h es ng i t ic t
k

When you are sick, it is important that you tell a safe and trusted adult such as a family member or a health professional, so that they can bring you to a doctor who can help. When was the last time you were sick? Who was the first person you told? Did you go to the Doctor?

Match up the doctor to their expertise:

Family Doctor heart Dentist eyes Cardiologist children Dermatologist mental health Optometrist hearing Pediatrician teeth Audiologist general illnesses Psychiatrist skin
Answers: Family Doctor-general illness Dentist-teeth Cardiologist-heart Dermatologist-skin Optometrist-eyes Pediatrician-children Audiologist-hearing Psychiatristmental health

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Youre amazing!
When you stand in front of a mirror, what do you see? Do you see how unique and amazing you are? As you grow older, your physical body will undergo many changes including changes to your height and weight. Dont worry! This is normal, and everyone goes through it. Everyone! Although girls experience similar changes, everyone is unique. Girls and women come in all shapes, sizes, and appearances.

Diversity is the beauty

that makes each of us amazing and special just the way we are.

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body image
Body image involves attitude and feelings: how we think about and feel about our bodies. Some people are satisfied with the way they look, while some may think they are too somethingtoo thin, too fat, too tall, too short. But remember, just like everyone else, we have good days and bad days and our mood can affect how we see ourselves.

Know also that what we focus our minds on affects how we view and value ourselves. One way we become unhappy about ourselves is the COMPARISON GAME. Any time youre tempted to compare yourself to others, STOP and consider who you are. No two people are ever the same. We are all unique!

Think about your strength, your uniqueness, your talent, your beautyboth inside and out!
Celebrate who you are, and others around you. Think about positive things. Build and protect your self-esteem, because healthy minds support healthy emotions and build healthy bodies. Write down some things you love about your body

1
4

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body image
Be a first-rate version of yourself, rather than a second-rate version of someone else
Judy Garland

digital

We all love photos and share them with safe and trusted friends and family online or through text messages. But with all of these social media tools and our smartphone gadgets, lets keep things smart and real. First, know the environment, and be smart about what images and videos are posted online, because whatever is shared electronically may and can be seen and shared by many people, including people you dont know. Second, we need to remember that what we watch on TV and see on the internet, the models in the magazines and on advertising, can create unnecessary pressures to look and dress a certain way. That is why it is very important that we remember whats real, and not get lost in all these images defining whats supposed to be beautiful or creating the pressure or need to be sexy. Your body is still changing, and you have the power to decide how you want to express yourself with the way you look. software, expert camera angles and lighting, and professional stylists and make-up artists. Often times, what we see is an illusion. These media images were enhanced to make them look better than real life. We can resist, stay real, and be ourselves. Remember, there is much value in our diversity. Surround yourself with people who love you and accept you just the way you are. And accept and love others just the way they are.

One final note

Media also has tools to make people look good, like computer

29

handling

STRESS
what stresses you out?
wrIte down what stresses you the most?

30

Stress comes with change, and some of that is good. Other times, it can become a bit too much. Sometimes we can feel overwhelmed when too much stress happens all at oncefrom school, exams, parents or guardians, friends, work, money, try outs, and relationships. An important part of growing up is learning how to manage and deal with stress in positive ways.

MANAGE YOUR TIME

Managing time between school, work, friends, and family can sometimes seem impossible, but prioritizing and setting goals that are realistic and achievable can help you tackle things one step at a time.

GO FOR A WALK

Exercising helps people manage and relieve stress. When we move around, our body naturally produces and releases chemicals called endorphins that help us feel better about ourselves and the situations were facing. Endorphins ease away the tension our bodies feel when were feeling stressed out. Exercisingeven something as simple as a walk in fresh airhelps us sleep better, feel rested, and handle stress when it comes up.

Take a break

Being too busy can be a big source of stress, so make sure you take some time to RELAX. When stress hits us, sometimes the best thing we can do is to slow things down, and take some time out. Walk away from the problem, take slow and deep breaths, and think about other, more positive things. Youll be surprised how your mind can see more clearly after taking a break. You might want to read a book, play a musical instrument, or write in your journal.

ASK FOR HELP

When were feeling overwhelmed, one of the best ways to manage that stress is to reach out to safe and trusted family and friends and ask for help. Sometimes, we may need to talk to professionals like a psychologist or another medical professional. Thats OK too. We can discuss our problems and situations with people we trust. They can listen, and sometimes can even offer help to make the situation more manageable for us. In the same way, be a friend to others and listen to them when they need help during stressful times.

how do you

COPE?
31

under control?
Sometimes, making healthy decisions is difficult, especially when we are in stressful situations and we feel angry or pressured. Unhealthy actions to cope with stress are often used to shut out and forget about the problems, or to feel in control. Please know that the use of alcohol, drugs, or smoking is not the best way to cope with stress. If you need someone to talk to, you can call the 1-800-668-6868. Kids Help Phone

The Youth Truth Matters project is a Nova Scotia youth project from the Tri-County Womens Centre in Digby, Yarmouth, and Shelburne. It is led by and developed by youth to address the issues around the use of drugs in the community. The youth developed workshops and educational tools on drugs that they present to their peers and the broader community. Based on the various components of the Youth Truth Matters project, theyve created a Peer Educator Toolkit in both English and French. For more information, check out their website www.tricountywomenscentre.org/youth-truth-matters.html

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LETS THINK ABOUT THIS

Do you or someone you know use drugs, alcohol or smoke to reduce the stress in their lives, or before they go through stressful situations? Is drinking alcohol, using drugs or smoking making it difficult to do well at school, at your job, on sports teams or extracurricular activities? Do you know of someone who may be harming themselves or controlling their eating habits negatively to deal with stress and problems in their lives? Are you or someone you know using drugs, alcohol or smoking to stop feeling hurt, or to hurt other people? Does your Mom, Dad, brother, sister, grandparent, or other close relatives have problems as a result of drugs, alcohol or smoking? Have you or a friend ever had a complete loss of memory after drinking or taking some drugswhere you or your friend cant remember anything at all?

IF youve answered to any of these questions, it may be worth it to talk to a safe and trusted adult like a parent or guardian, guidance counselor , youth health centre worker , or health professional. For issues around drugs, alcohol, and smoking, you can talk to an addictions counselor. To find the nearest addictions office near you, visit www.addictionservices.ns.ca

YES

right away if you think a friend or family member has overdosed on alcohol or other drugs. You might save someones life! What could that look like? When a person Has passed out and cannot be woken Is sweating, shaking, has a fever and/or rapid pulse Is having difficulty breathing Is having a severe reaction to the drugs and alcohol.

Call 911

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Making Healthy Choices

As a young person, your body and mind are still growing and developing. Making healthy choices is very important for your life today and in the future. Before anyone takes a drink, a puff or a pill, there is an opportunity for a person to make a decision.

It is important that are informed and free to decide for yourself,

because life will offer situations where choices seem unavoidable, such as at parties, on dates, or at school; when youre with others or when youre alone; and when youre happy, angry, sad, stressed out, or pressured.

YOU

It is important that MAKE THE HEALTHY CHOICES FOR YOU.

YOU

34

On page 31, recall the different ways of how we can cope with stress and the problems and challenges of life. Remember that

POSITIVE

you can:

Think about positive things Manage your time Prioritize Relax and take deep breaths Sleep and get some rest Do something creative and fun to clear your head Exercise to release natural endorphins to make you feel better Share your problems with someone safe and trustworthy, like a friend or a relative Get help from community members, such as youth workers, elders, service providers, or medical professionals

When you encounter stress, how do YOU cope? What do YOU do? What can YOU do?

35

Rel

t u o b A All

s p i h s n o i t a

People are social beings.

We have many relationships from acquaintances, to best friends, to family members.

d In this section, well talk about how were connecte through family, to ourselves and to one another friends and our dating relationships. Well talk about what healthy relationships may look like and how to recognize when theyre not, what we can do when we encounter difficult situations, and where we can go for help.

36

s p i h s n Relatio with yourself

The one thing all of your relationships have in common is
So, know yourself. Like yourself. Care about yourself. Use the space below to draw or paste items that represent you. For example, if you like basketball, place an image of you playing basketball or your favourite basketball player. If you like to travel, you can paste an image of your favourite place to visit. You can also use the space to write about yourself as if you are introducing yourself to a new person you want to be friends with. Whether youre pasting images, drawing, or writing, think about who you are and what you like about yourself, and express that to other people.

Healthy

you!

FACT of life #1:

You will live with yourself your whole life. Learn how to enjoy it.

FACT of life #2:

Remember: you arent responsible for anyone elses behaviour. However, you are responsible for your own actions, responses, and decisions.

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Happiness starts with...

Happiness starts with contentment and knowing a little bit more about yourselflike what you enjoy doing, and what you like. List a few things that makes you feel good, and think about why they make you feel this way.

Match made in heaven!

When building relationships, knowing your own strengths, needs, and weaknesses will help you learn about the kinds of friends that match your personality. You will know the kind of person youll click with, and what personalities might challenge you to grow and see different perspectives. Knowing and accepting yourself will give you the opportunity to know who you want to spend time with, and what sort of things you can do together that both of you will enjoy.

Be good to yourself. Ask what you need.

Here are my strengths weaknesses needs

There are people who care about you and want to support you. Who are your best supporters?

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alone time
Sometimes I feel I need alone time, too. I dont want to have too much time with people. I need to just go home and veg.
Nova Scotia teen

If Im just tired and cranky I like to be by myself.

Nova Scotia teen

Sometimes, we like to be around many people. Sometimes, we just want to be alone. We all get cranky. We worry. We feel sad. Sometimes, we feel angry and frustrated. These feelings can drag us down. We all have different moods at different times. Its OK! This is normal.

on. i t p Be rr u ing a ak. e e r t b e l c o i ne can be a n It ith. t in u w sa o it time to with do think and dream o It g ot hin sa h t w y time to nd t an plan what to do a a It w n. rd o a sa h r k r time yo you u dont have to wo n ju o st b xing a l e yours e r , elf, by yourself

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Feeling better
Sometimes, we need to deal with problems or disappointments either by talking about it or apologizing, while other times we just need to learn to let things go to free ourselves from the worry and stress. Sometimes, we need to address what causes us stress, while other times we need to learn how to cope with it. Do you know how to make yourself feel better? Go to pages 30 and 31 to learn more about healthy ways to handle stress in life.

Reflect on these two

I like to be alone be

thoughts
cause

her peop I like to be with ot because

le

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Healthy relationships with your family and other adults

The adults in your life, especially your family members, will probably be with you for a long time. Take a minute and think about them Who are the adults in your family? In your life?

When youre not feeling good, it just makes you feel down, but sometimes, just to get out and do something especially if you havent been doing anything and to be around your friends is helpful.
Nova Scotia teen

Sometimes, you might feel that the adults in your family want to hang out with you too often. Sometimes, it might feel like they dont care. Sometimes, you may enjoy being with them and talking with them, other timesyou might feel like theyre treating you like a child.

What are the different ways you spend time together as a family?

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Healthy relationships with your family and other adults

I talk to my mom a little bit.

Nova Scotia teen

I talk more to my dad because Im an only child too, but Ive always been close to my dad because we have the exact same personality.
Nova Scotia teen

Some girls are able to talk more with the women or the men in their lives. Whoever it is you communicate with best, finding a way to share what youre thinking and how youre feeling with safe and trusted adults in your life is really important. No one is a mind reader. You cant read their minds, and they cant read yours. One of the best ways to sort out a conflict or misunderstanding is through talking about it, sharing your perspective, and listening to the other persons side. Writing a letter works in many situations. Write a letter to your parent or guardian. Tell them what you love about them, and whats going on. You can share how you feel, and if you want, ask for help to sort things out. BUT WAIT! After youve written the letter, DONT GIVE IT TO THEM YET! Keep it for a few days, and read it again. Then decide if you want to share it with them. Do what you believe is best, and what youre comfortable with.

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Challenging times in the family

Sometimes when Im upset, I just let it out and just cry on my bed. I just need that.
Nova Scotia teen

Families go through difficult times like the loss of a loved one or parents divorcing. Its normal for you to feel lost, confused, angry, or frightened. Talk with a safe and trusted adult, like your parent, guardian, or a guidance counselor. Ask questions to help you better understand the situation and to also give you an opportunity to just let it out.

Parents, siblings, relatives they fight from time to time. Conflict is part of life, and so is making up. Talking about what happened, apologizing and stopping behavior that hurts others are important ways to reconcile relationships. Unfortunately though, some families may experience violence during these times. If you feel or know that someone is getting hurt in your family, its important to tell someone safe and that you can trust like a parent, a guardian, a teacher or a guidance counselor. Remember, your safety and the safety of your loved ones is very important. Ask for help! To find out information about abuse in the family, you can visit the following websites: Nova Scotia Domestic Violence Resource Centre www.nsdomesticviolence.ca Transition House Association of Nova Scotia www.thans.ca

Fights?

You can call the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868.

Alice Housing has created a storybook entitled Healing the Bruises: Through

the Eyes of a Child to share a young persons experience of living in a violent home, the process of leaving that home for safety, and the journey of healing from violence. For more information, visit Alice Housings website www.alicehousing.ca.

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Common reactions during difficult times are sadness or anger. Other people may experience extreme feelings of sadness. Do you know someone who might be more than sad? Want to find out the signs of depression? Is someone you know getting hurt either through self-harm or by others? Again, talk to a safe and trusted adult like a parent or guardian, guidance counselor, or health professional like a mental health practitioner. You can also read information found on the Kids Help Phone website www.kidshelpphone.ca www.teenmentalhealth.org. or visit Teen Mental Health

If you know someone who is depressed, if you are getting hurt, or youre afraid a friend or loved one is getting hurt, contact the Kids Help Phone

They can help and guide you through difficult situations.

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Healthy relationships with your friends

I love y
We all need friends!

BF

YOU R

O CK!!

our smi

le!

Your friends might be your neighbours, your cousins or siblings, people in your class or on your sports team, or people you grew up with. You may be the kind of person who has a lot of friends, or you might enjoy the company of a few close ones. Whatever you prefer, we all want to live and share life with other people we click with.

You always knew that even though you couldnt see them every single day, there was always someone that if you were having a bad day, or whatever , you could call them. So it was, that was a real confidence boost for me.
Nova Scotia teen

45

Healthy relationships with your friends

If you do things that interest you, youre going to meet people with similar interests. Knowing what youre passionate about and participating in those activitiesbe it music, reading, or sportshelps broaden your social networks. Heres what some Nova Scotia teens are saying:

I met Alice through a choir that Im in. I think one of the biggest things is just to get involved in different things to meet other people, instead of just whos at your school.
Nova Scotia teen

I got dragged to curling this year , and I met people who live close to me, and its a two-minute walk to their house.
Nova Scotia teen

Who are your closest friends?

How did you meet them?

What do you love about them?

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Problems with Fr

iends

My relationship with my friends changed too, so I dont really hang with them anymore, just because of problems.
Nova Scotia teen

Relationships and friendships change over time...

and sometimes problems come up between friends. At times, people can be mean or insensitive. Arguments can happen, and so can misunderstandings. It gets difficult when trust is broken, especially between friends. One of the things you can do is to talk things through with your friends, and see if your friendship can be repaired. It is OK to be angry or upset. These are normal responses to a conflict or disagreement. It is important to learn to communicate and disagree respectfully, but also honestly, without using violence to settle a problem. Youd be surprise to see how a kind word or an apology can mend broken relationships. However, despite your honest efforts, some disagreements cant be sorted out. Even though it might be difficult, the best thing you might be able to do is to let things go and walk away.

Your most important relationships are with your friends because theyre the ones that understand you the most, but you also have a lot of drama with your friends and so thats where it gets tricky.
Nova Scotia teen

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Take this survey

Its a known fact, we all need friends! Fitting in matters, but it isnt always easy. There has to be give and take on both sides. Remember: Friendships are not one-sided. Thats why its a relationship. Am I trying to fit into the right group for me? Am I sacrificing myself to be with this group? How important is this really? What is it costing me to fit in? How can I make this work for me? Do I really like them and want to spend time with them? Do I like to do the same things they do? Do I like the way they treat other people? How can we patch things up?

a yes a no a yes a no a a

a yes a no a yes a no a yes a no

Remember, friendships are relationships between you and another person. If you are sacrificing what you believe in just to stay friends or to fit in with some people, think about it. Ask yourself if these friendships are really worth it!

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Only you can decide.

Relationship Choices
We cant please everyone. So it is important to think about the decisions that you make and think whether you are doing them for yourself or because someone else really wants you to do something. Read the scenario below and fill in the last box with how you would respond to Zoeys request. Madison and Zoey havent known each other long but they are close friends. Madison has played basketball for several years.
Hi Madison, can you help me decorate tonight for my party? I only have one birthday a year. Let me know after school OK? It would mean a lot if you helped.

I have a basketball game tonight. I cant let the girls down. Theyre counting on me being there. What do I do?!?!

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cyberbullying gossiping rumors pushing teasing

stealing

threats name calling leaving someone out

bullying

Cyberbullying

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body, feelings, self-esteem, reputation, or property. Helping or encouraging someone to bully another person is also bullying.

Bullying is when someone tries to hurt another persons

Bullying hurts. It can leave people feeling vulnerable and alone. You never have to tolerate bullying, abuse, or violence. EVER! Not sure when to talk things over or ask for help?
You are not alone. Trust the way you feel, and youll know what to do. Go to a safe and trusted friend or adult like a parent, guardian, teacher, or guidance counselor and share whats going on. You can contact the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868. In response to the recommendations of the Nova Scotia Task Force on Bullying and Cyberbullying, an online reporting mechanism for bullying and cyberbullying is being finalized by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. The web-based tool will start up in the fall of 2013. For more up-to-date information, please go to www.antibullying.novascotia.ca. You can also contact CyberSCAN at 1-855-702-8324 or the Halifax Regional Police on their Bully Hotline at 490-SAVE (7283) or Text 233-SAVE (7283).

If you ever find yourself or a friend in an emergency situation, dont hesitate to call 911.

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VIOLENCE
cyber bullying
Cyberbullying is when someone uses technology (for example, social networking sites, e-mails, text messages, and the sharing of embarrassing photos or videos) to bully someone. Cyberbullying is challenging because hurtful messages or images can be shared quickly and anonymously. This sense of no one knows its me can increase bullying actions. However, there are many ways to stay safe online.

Putting a stop to cyberbullying requires help from

everyone

Check ou t www. antibully ing.nova sc to find ou t what bu otia.ca llying and cyberbull yin for help a g is, where to go nd the re sources available to you, y o ur friends and famil ies.

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Pretending to be you

One da y , a t the school gym...

someone forgot their phone!

53

ALL CONTACTS

Message Sent

Looks like someone sent a message pretending to be you

Your friend finds out tha t someone else took your phone

54

Your friend tells you wha t happened

You talk to your coach...

The two coaches talk about wha t happened . Remember, you can talk to a safe and trusted adul t like a coach, parent , or guidance counselor.

55

don't stand by

STAND UP
The Ne website g edHelpNow.ca ive sibling, o s you, your frien d, r family m ember informati on about how to Stop th e spread of picture or videos s online Remo ve picture s or vide from the os internet Talk to som whats ha eone about Deal w ppening ith a has gone situation that too far

56

Protect your profile!

Cyberbull ying is when someone uses technology (social networking sites, e-mails, text messages, and t  he sharing of images) to bull  y someone else.

Some girls were studying a t the school library when

trying to finish this essa y

I Need another book.

Tha ts interesting, I wonder if she logged of f

Looks like she didnt!

Im so #$%^&, I cant even think straight about this #essay

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La ter tha t da y ,

she reads through her profile and the comments

Wait a minute, this looks kinda weird!

She goes and tells her parents

Her dad calls the school, and he talks with the school librarian

The librarian gives the student a warning.

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It is important tha t Nova Scotians learn how to be good digital citizens who understand and take responsibility for how their decisions and beha viour af fect others in the digital world .

Speak up: If someone sends you a text, tweet or email that

makes you uncomfortable, tell someone safe that you can trust (for example, a family member, teacher, police, or a friend).

Control your online presence: Increase your privacy settings online, hide your prole, and block users you dont want to connect with. Save the evidence: With the help of a safe and trusted adult, save offending messages, pictures, and copies of online or text conversations. Know where to go: There are supports and services available to help you deal with cyberbullying. Information on where you can turn if you need help is available at www.antibullying.novascotia.ca. Report incidence of cyberbullying: Inform the
appropriate authorities (for example, teachers, principals, police personnel).

Did you know?

Nova Scotia created a special team whose only job is to deal with cyberbullying complaints. Its called CyberSCAN. If you, or someone you know, is being cyberbullied, you can call CyberSCAN. Their phone number is 1-855-702-8324. CyberSCAN investigators will work with everyone, including schools and families, to solve the problem. For more information www.cyberscan.novascotia.ca.

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know and trust on social networking sites. Find out how to adjust your privacy settings in whatever social media you are using. Be careful about sharing personal information like your birthday, address, phone number, and any videos or photographs, even with people you know in a private email or text. Once you hit send, you cant take it back. protect your phone and keep your password private. Not doing this is the digital equivalent of leaving your home or car unlocked.

Protect your profile: Only connect with people you

Password protect your phone: Be sure to password

Model digital citizenship: Think before you post, text, email, or tweet. Always remember that you alone are responsible for your words and actions. Cyberbullying is everyones responsibility:
Communications devices like cell phones, computers and social media sites are powerful methods to stay connected. How you choose to use them can make all the difference.

Be part of the solution: Stand up for human rights

by refusing to forward text messages or photos that are hurtful, demeaning or disrespectful.

tools! Dont let them control you. Dont let them hurt you. Instead, take the Internet and use it for good. Find a cause you can get behind, and spread the word about it to make the world a better place.

Use it for good: Social media and smart phones are just

60

For more information, check out the following websites: Nova Scotias Anti-bullying website www.antibullying.novascotia.ca Cybersafe Girl Need Help Now Thats Not Cool www.cybersafegirl.ca www.needhelpnow.ca www.thatsnotcool.com

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Healthy Relationships
Crushing over someone special and falling in love can be a wonderful experience!

with some romance

We admire and respect certain things about that person, or theres a special bond of trust and caring between you and the other person.

Remember, relationships start with you.

Get to know your personal interests and your relational boundaries, and share them with someone who will accept and respect you for you.

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Ready for Love?

Write down the answers to these questions.
How have I prepared myself for making big decisions? How do I know I have the selfconfidence to ask the questions I need to ask? What makes me believe I am a good listener? Can I communicate how I really feel? When was the last time I communicated my feelings, and what happened? When did I last say no to something I really didnt want to do? Am I ready to say it when I need to? How will I? Can I ask for what I really want? What will I say? What might stop me?

Take this test...

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What is the difference and between

sex gender ?

Biological sex and gender are different!

identifies a person as female, male, or intersexits the physical characteristics of a person including things such as sexual and reproductive anatomy, chromosomes, and hormones. Intersex is a general term used to describe biological variations in sexual and reproductive development in which a person is born with sexual or reproductive anatomy or chromosomes that do not fit the binary biological sex of female or male. is typically understood within two fixed optionsboy/man or girl/woman. A society or culture makes up the roles and relationships, traits, behaviours, values, power and influence appropriate between the two genders. Gender messages and expectations are constantly around us. Most assume that a persons gender is based on the sex they are assigned at birth. However, there is much more diversity than that! Gender identity is your internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere in between. Gender identity refers to the internal experience of a person that cannot be determined by others. A persons gender identity is different from their sexual orientation. How you present or show your gender to the world is known as gender expression. For most people, gender identity or expression is consistent with their assigned sex at birth. For transgender individuals, gender identity or expression differs from their assigned sex. People who are gender variant or gender nonconforming have a gender expression that differs from what is expected for their perceived gender or assigned sex in a given culture. Some people identify as genderqueer. This is a label for individuals whose gender identity is outside the male/female gender identification. Aboriginal people may identify themselves as Two Spirit rather than as bisexual, gay, lesbian, or transgender. Two Spirit implies the embodiment of both masculine and feminine spiritual qualities within the same body.

64

sexual orientation?
Sexual orientation is who we are romantically, emotionally, or physically attracted to. Sexual orientation is about who you like, who you crush on, who you form relationships with who you love.

What is

Sexual behaviour is often confused with sexual orientation.

Where sexual orientation is about attraction, sexual behaviour is just about sex. Someones sexual behaviour does not necessarily tell us about someones sexual orientation, or vice versa.

65

Everyone has a sexual orientation, and some of the most common labels are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and straight (but there are more, like queer or pansexual). Here are some definitions:
sexual attraction. They do sometimes have emotional attractions, and form relationships (just not ones that involve sexual behaviour). This means sometimes people who are asexual can also identify as straight or LGBTQ.

Asexual: People who are asexual usually do not experience

Bisexual: A bisexual person is emotionally and physically

attracted to men and womenit doesnt have to be 50/50, or an equal feeling. Someone could be more attracted to men or more to women, but feels they could have a relationship with either.

used to mean a person who is attracted to people of various identities and expressions. If you think of the word bisexual, bi means two, implying there are only two genders. Some people disagree with this, and use pansexual as a way of lifting those limitations on gender. It does not mean that bisexuality is seen in a negative light, just that there are other identities that some people find more comfortable.

Pansexual: The word pan means all, so pansexual is

Queer: Queer can be an identity that is a little less limiting than others. Queer means someone is not straight (or heterosexual), but who feels that words like lesbian, gay, or bisexual arent quite right either. It can also be useful because it doesnt gender someone, or indicate the gender of someones partner. Many like to identify as queer for these reasons. Note as well that queer is also used as a slur, and should always be defined before using. Make it known that you are using queer in a positive way. People also like to use queer in a positive way because it can take away the negative power of the word. Straight (Heterosexual): A person who is attracted to
the opposite sex/gender.

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It is often an exciting feeling when youre thinking about romantic relationships. To some people, it can also be a stressful time. Having feelings that make you wonder what your sexual orientation is may be a confusing experience. Whatever it is you are feeling, know that you are not alone!

Consider talking with a safe and trusted adult like a pa rent or guardian, guidance co unselor or youth worker. There are people out there you can ta lk to, such as the staff and yout h leaders at The Youth Project at www.youthproject.n s.ca.

www.youthproject.n s.ca/gsa/ docs/GSAManual.pd f.

Scot ia Gay St raight Alliance Manu al (2011)

For more informatio n, you can also check out the No va

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Healthy Dating Relationships

In a healthy relationship, you feel safe, respected and cared about.

You know, like, and respect each other. You accept each other as you are and dont try to change each other. You trust each other. You enjoy your time together and arent jealous when you spend time with other people. You dont control one another. Youre there for one another. You support each other through good times and bad. You feel good when youre together. Youre relaxed and comfortable. You can laugh and have fun. Youre not worried about saying or doing the wrong thing. You can talk about anything. You can discuss your problems and concerns. You even feel comfortable talking about sex. You listen to each other. Youre not afraid to be honest or to say what you really think. You can disagree with each other without getting mad. If you do fight, you dont hurt each other and you respectfully make up and work things out.

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Adapted from the Department of Health and Wellness, Sex? - A Healthy Sexuality Resource, www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/publications/11032_SexBook_En.pdf

Unhealthy Dating Relationships

In an unhealthy relationship, you feel scared, confused and insecure

Your partner constantly criticizes you and puts you down. Nothing you do is good enough. He or she makes you feel stupid. There are things youre afraid to talk about with your partner. Your partner is jealous and controlling. She or he doesnt want you to spend time with your friends or family. Theres no trust, and you dont feel free to make your own decisions. You never know where you stand. Your partner plays mind gameshe or she will be nice one minute and ignore you the next. She or he lies to you. Your partner tells you one thing and then does another. You feel pressured to do things you dont want to do. Youre afraid your partner will get angry and leave you if you dont do everything he or she wants you to do. There is a lot of yelling in your relationship. Your partner freaks out when you dont agree with what she or he wants or says. Sometimes youre scared of what he or she might do which may include more yelling or even hitting.

Remember, relationships start with you! If you find yourself in an unhealthy relationship, you still have the right and ability to make the best choices for you even if it means letting the relationship go.

Always stay true to yourself. Mutual respect is key.

Adapted from the Department of Health and Wellness, Sex? - A Healthy Sexuality Resource, www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/publications/11032_SexBook_En.pdf

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How Healthy is your Relationship?

yes no

Is this a relationship between equal partners where neither of us is the boss? Are we friends? Do we have fun together? Do we both have other friends and interests and arent jealous when we spend time with other people? Are we honest with each other? Do we trust one another? Are we comfortable talking about most things, including being ready for sex or not? Do we listen to each other and respect each others ideas, values, and points of view? Does this relationship make me feel good about myself? When we disagree, do we sort it out respectfully? Am I sure that he or she will never physically hurt me? Do I feel valued and listened to in this relationship? If you answered no to any of these questions, your relationship could be unhealthy. You might find it helpful to talk with someone you trust about how you feel. For more information, check out the resources available in Nova Scotia starting on page 114.

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Adapted from the Department of Health and Wellness, Sex? - A Healthy Sexuality Resource, www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/publications/11032_SexBook_En.pdf

Ready or notfor SEX?

Sexuality is part of being human. Its a normal and healthy part of life.
Sexuality is about feelings and desires. to juggle feelings Its about finding that are both confusing and exciting all at the same time. Sexuality includes sexual feelings and the decisions make about how act on those feelings.

your own way you

you

hy se H eal t

xual choices allow you

to:

Respect yourself Respect others Protect yourself from emotional and physical harm like:
Pressures to have sex Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Unintended pregnancies

If you are thinking about sex, think carefully! Remember, your choices are your own!
Sex A Healthy Sexuality Resource gives facts and explores the issues. You can download it from the Department of Health and Wellness www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/publications/11032_SexBook_En.pdf To get more information, you can also check out www.StayTeen.org.
Adapted from the Department of Health and Wellness, Sex? - A Healthy Sexuality Resource, www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/publications/11032_SexBook_En.pdf

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Consent
If something happens against your will, it means you did not agree to ityou did not give your permission or consent. Consent means giving permission for something to happen. This is especially important with sex. Remember that just because you didnt say no, it doesnt mean you said yes. Also, consenting to one thing does not mean you consent to everything. You have the right to state your own sexual limits.

Always remember:
drunk or high

You cannot consent to sex if you are:

threatened or bullied

the other person is someone in a position of trust (like a teacher, coach, or babysitter) the other person is a family member (like a relative, extended family, or foster family) It does not matter if the person who assaulted you is your boyfriend or girlfriend, someone you want to have sex with, someone you have had consensual sex with before, or if they have assaulted you before. If you do not or cannot give consent, it means that they have committed sexual assault.

Sexual assault is a CRIME.

For more information ab out consent and sexual assault, vis it the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Womens book, Sexual Assault: Safety, help, and healing for tee ns in Nova Scotia www.women.gov.ns.ca.

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73

Working on it
Deciding what to pursue as a career or a profession will always be a work in progress.
Women and men of all ages often change careers a few times in their working lives. In general, there are four steps to consider when exploring what job to pursue:

Know yourself what you like, whats important to you, and what your options are. Know whats out there where you will be looking for that dream job. Make an informed decision check out how your dreams, who you are, and whats out there line up . Create an action plan and develop a path to make your dreams reality.

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When someone asks you, where do you want to work in the future? what is the first thing that you think about?
For some of us, we may want to become a nurse or a lawyer, a musician or a paralympian, an elder or a reverend, a pilot or a mechanic. For others, our minds may be drawing a blank. Dont worry! We have lots of time to figure things out, and deciding what we want to do is part of the adventure. One thing is for sure, we all know what we like and what we dont like. We know what were passionate about, and what we find boring. There are many clues that can help you decide and explore options for your future.

DREAM BIG

What is important is that you know that you can pursue anything! You can dream big dreams, and work to make your dreams a reality! You can try things out, explore, and decide for yourself what you want to do, and who you want to be.

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Finding a job that you love and enjoy is a great source of happiness. That is why it is important to find a job or decide on a career that reflects who you are! Here are some more questions to consider: What do you want to do and who do you want to be in the future?

Interview yourself

What do you enjoy doing? Do you like working with people, animals, or things?

What are or were your favourite subjects in school? Why do you or did you like them?

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What are your strengths and skills? Describe yourself.

What is important to you in a job?

Do you want set hours and a set schedule, or do you want flexibility with your time?

77

Do you like to work independently or with others? Do you want to lead or be a team member?

Do you want to travel the world or work close to home?

How much money do you want to make?

Do you want to work immediately after high school or do you want to get more education?

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Getting some guidance

To get to know yourself better while looking for a job or a career that fits who you are and who you want to become, check out the following resources:

Nova Scotias Department of Education & Early Childhood Developments programs: Co-operative Education for Students FutureSeekers Options and Opportunities www.ednet.ns.ca/O2/ www.ednet.ns.ca/coop

www.futureseekers.ca

for youth and students students career quizzes

Nova Scotias Department of Labour and Advanced Educations pages:

www.careers.novascotia.ca/youth-and-

www.careers.novascotia.ca/quizzes www.youth.gc.ca

Government of Canadas Services for Youth JobJunction www.jobjunction.ca

Services for Persons with Disabilities coms/disabilities/index.html

www.novascotia.ca/

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Pathways

One of the ways to prepare for your future job is to complete high school. Some jobs, though, require more training. Often times, you may need to take certain courses in high school to attend university or college, or complete apprenticeship training. Know as well that some students take a gap year, which usually happens between high school and college, where they travel, work, or volunteer before continuing with more schooling. Your teachers and guidance counselors can help identify the courses and credits you need to graduate and pursue more training after high school, if you want to, even after taking a gap year.

You can participate in this process by identifying what subjects you enjoy and are good at, and what kinds of jobs you may want to have in the future.

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Post-secondary Education
New students and their parents or guardians can visit universities and colleges to get more information about how post-secondary education works. It is important to see what programs each school has to offer, the requirements for admission, deadlines for application, the length of the programs, the tuition fees, and any financial assistance available for you, such as bursaries or scholarships from each university or college. There are plenty of options in Nova Scotia. Heres a list of university and colleges you can check out: Colleges www.nscc.ca Nova Scotia Community College A listing of various private colleges throughout Nova Scotia www.pcc.ednet.ns.ca/colleges Universities www.acadiau.ca Acadia University www.astheology.ns.ca Atlantic School of Theology www.cbu.ca Cape Breton University www.dal.ca Dalhousie University www.msvu.ca Mount Saint Vincent University www.dal.ca/faculty/agriculture.html Nova Scotia Agricultural College www.nscad.ca Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University www.smu.ca Saint Marys University www.stfx.ca St. Francis Xavier University www.ukings.ca University of Kings College www.usainteanne.ca Universit Sainte-Anne

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Trades and Technology

One option for work after high school is to enter jobs in trades and technology.
women from grades 9 through 12 from across Nova Scotia with opportunities to explore careers in science, trades, and technology www.techsploration.ca). Their goal is to increase the number ( of women working in these fields, and to help girls understand the significance of high school math and science for their future careers. Techsploration offers various programs for girls, such as: Techsploration Career Research Model Techsploration Goes to School Techsplorer Events Techsplorer Alumnae Conference/Activities www.techsploration.ca for more Check out their website information, or to view the popular Women in Action web video series, highlighting the successful careers of women in science, trades, and technology.

Techsploration is an organization dedicated to empowering young

www.weesociety.ca) is another organization in Nova Scotia that provides women from diverse backgrounds with the opportunity to explore careers in trades and technology, and to take part in career decision-making activities. Their programs include a combination of hands-on workshops, field trips, industry-based activities, math upgrading, and job shadowing. Their programs include career exploration and decision making, support and mentoring.

Women Unlimited (

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On-the-job training while in high school

To work in trades in Nova Scotia, you can enter an apprenticeship, which is a training system of both supervised on-the-job and technical training. There is a special program called Youth Apprenticeship for students between the ages of 16 and 19, where you find an employer to begin your on-the-job training with while still in high school, usually part-time in your trade. Then, you register as a youth apprentice and complete your apprenticeship hours and technical training. Another option is to first complete a one-year or two-year trades program at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), then to find an employer, register as an apprentice, and complete the required working hours. For more information, check out WorkIt www.workitns.ca.

Apprenticeship

Co-operative Education
You can explore how to gain real work experience and earn high school credits at the same time by seeing what working in a variety of careers is really like while developing your skills and completing your high school requirements. The career choices included in the co-op education are diversefrom trades and technology to other professions and careers like lawyers and teachers. You can take co-op courses if you are 16 or older in grade 10, 11, or 12 attending a school that offers co-op education able to work independently For more information about co-op education, visit your guidance counselor and check out www.ednet.ns.ca/coop.

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There are many people and resources that can help you decide how to make your dream job into a reality. You can talk to a safe and trusted adult like your parent, or guidance counselor. You can also check out different websites that give you information about training after high school like colleges and universities. In this way, you can trace what kind of courses you will need to complete in high school and in college or university.

Deciding on what you want to do in the future may seem like an overwhelming task. But dont worry!

Dream Job
Engineer

University, College or Apprentice Training

Senior High School

Engineering

For example: Grade 12 English, pre-calculus math, chemistry, physics, and one additional academic subject. (Check institution for up-to-date admissions information.)

Trace your optinons here.

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Job Profiles
Heres a very small sample of what kinds of jobs and careers you can explore and pursue. Maybe one of these jobs could be your dream job! If its not on this short list, dont worry! You can search a giant database of all kinds of jobs by checking out this website www.careers.novascotia.ca/searchjobprofiles
Architect work - Plan and develop designs for construction and renovation of all types of buildings. skills - Design, technological, managerial, communication, supervisory, understanding of individual and social needs, interpersonal skills

hourly wages (2009) - Average: $30.00 Minimum: $23.75 Maximum: $41.75 Accountant workers - 24.5% Female 75.5% Male training - University or college-level training work - Plan, organize, and administer accounting systems for individuals or organizations such as financial statements, taxes, and profits. skills - Organizational, analytical, communication, good judgment, integrity, attention to detail, math skills, knowledge of business and financial software

hourly wages (2009) - Average: $31.75 Minimum: $17.00 Maximum: $60.25 workers - 54.5% Female 45.5% Male training - University or college-level training

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Baker

work - Prepare and decorate all kinds of bread and pastry for sale in retail food stores and/or restaurants. skills - Initiative, imagination, creativity, attention to detail, basic nutrition and baking methods, food handling, organization, time management, stamina and good physical health

hourly wages (2009) - Average: $11.25 Minimum: $9.65 Maximum: $19.75 Photographer workers - 62.9% Female 37.1% Male training - Apprenticeship and/or college-level training work - Operate cameras, prepare photos, and use photography software to record people, events, scenes, materials on photo film and digital mediums. skills - Creativity, imagination, artistic talent, attention to detail, knowledge of photography techniques, use of technical equipment/processes

hourly wages (2009) - Average: $16.75 Minimum: $9.65 Maximum: $30.00 School Teacher workers - 49.3% Female 50.7% Male training - University or college-level training work - Prepare and deliver learning materials for students in particular subjects, teach according to an approved curriculum, assign and evaluate homework and progress of students, work with students, parents and other educators skills - Patient, imaginative, objective, resourceful, leadership and ability to motivate students, communication, planning and organization, inter-personal skills

hourly wages (2009) - Average: $37.00 Minimum: $24.50 Maximum: $46.25 workers - 72.6% Female 27.4% Male training - University or college-level training

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Massage Therapist

work - Develop treatment plans and administer massage therapy and other treatments to clients.

skills - Medical knowledge, physical stamina, effective communication, good judgment, strong sense of responsibility, patience, self-discipline hourly wages (2009) - Average: $18.75 Minimum: $12.50 Maximum: $33.00 workers - 89.2% Female 10.8% Male training - University or college-level training

Police Officer work - Protect the public, detect and prevent crimes, perform other activities directed at maintaining law and order like interviewing witnesses, responding to emergencies, securing evidence skills - Physical and mental fitness, excellent health, patient, culturally sensitive, resourceful, impartial, able to give and take orders, good judgment, excellent communication, observation and problem-solving skills, able to gain respect from the public

hourly wages (2009) - Average: $36.00 Minimum: $18.75 Maximum: $48.00 Pharmacist workers - 13.6% Female 86.4% Male training - University or college-level training work - Prepare and distribute prescribed medicine, and provide medical information to clients and health care professionals. skills - Have an interest in helping people in a healthcare environment. Have an interest in chemistry and medicine, and is attentive to detail and accuracy. Able to problem solve, patient, and communicates clearly. hourly wages (2009) - Average: $41.00 Minimum: $31.50 Maximum: $50.00 workers - 69.5% Female 30.5% Male training - University level training

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M y name, Owner

If you have a great idea for a product or a service, like an app for smart phones or tablets, then you may consider starting your very own business.
Starting your own business can be a lot of work, but there are people and organizations who can help you make your business ideas into a reality. Growing up, some of you may have organized your own lemonade stand, or your own yard sale. Those are beginnings of your entrepreneurial spirit.

You need to think about a few questions:

How much time and effort are you willing to invest into this business idea? Where will the funds come from to start your business?

What is your business idea? What is the product or service you will be selling? Is there a need for your product or service?

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These are just some of the very basic parts of starting your own business. You need to consider other things such as taxes and business registration. For more information, you can check out the following websites: Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Developments Youth Employability Project (YEP) www.ceed.ca Services for Youth: Starting Your Own Business www.youth.gc.ca/eng/ topics/jobs/business.shtml Centre for Women in Business www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Network (EDN) www. ednns.ca www.bbi.ca Black Business Initiative (BBI) Immigrant Settlement & Integration Services (ISIS) Business Development Services www.isisns.ca/business

How much will it cost to produce? How much will you sell it for?

How will you promote and market your business? Who are the competitors?

What is your business name? How will you structure your business?

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How to look for a job

Your Resume
Whether you are looking for

you will need to create your very own resume and cover letter.

a part-time job, a summer job, or your first job after high school,

Your resume will often have the following information:

Name Address City & Town Postal Code Phone Number Email Address Employment Goal
Describe the kind of job you are looking for. You may include the job position you are applying for.

Highlights of Qualifications

Write a few relevant statements highlighting your skills and qualifications that make you the right candidate for the job you are applying for.

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Date Your Name Address e, Title Employers Nam e Company Nam Address rs Name): Dear (add Employe name position of (add applying for the I am interested in on (add date). This h was advertised because nd grou of position) whic back hes my skills and opportunity matc ). ces (add your answers self, what experien mation about your (Add more infor work including ared you to do this prep riences, that have you your volunteer expe and , ning /trai your education hobbies, etc.). your (company or y being a part of I would really enjo ussing the position I look forward disc . I can organization), and view at any time lable for an inter avai am I er. ber). furth at (add your num hone telep by be reached Sincerely, e) (Sign your nam ) (Type your name

Education & Training

List any relevant education or training courses that you have completed, including the name of the course, the school and the date of completion. List any awards you have received.

Work & Volunteer History

List your work and volunteer history including the position you held, the name of your employer/organization, its location, when you worked/ volunteered there, and your major responsibilities and accomplishments.

References

You may include former teachers, coaches, spiritual leaders, employers, team leaders, and/or co-workers. Include their name, job title, company or organization and phone number. It is usually recommended to include three references. Make sure that you have contacted your references for permission before including them on your resume.

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Your Cover Letter

Heres a sample cover letter:
Date Your Name Address e, Title Employer s Nam e am Company N Address Dear (add Empl (add name r the position of fo ng yi pl ap in I am interested (add date). This was advertised on ch hi w ) n because tio si po of and background s ill sk y m es ch opportunity mat s). (add your answer ces lf, what experien ion about yourse at your rm g fo in in e ud cl or m in (Add this work do to u yo ed ar ep ces, you have that pr lunteer experien ning, and your vo ai tr d an n io at educ hobbies, etc.). (company or ing a part of your be y jo en ly al re ng the position I would forward discussi ok lo I n d an ), n tio at any time. I ca organiza for an interview e bl la ai av am I ). further. your number lephone at (add be reached by te Sincerely, me) (Sign your na ) e m na ur (Type yo oyer s Name):

How to look for a job

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How to look for a job

After creating your resume and cover letter, you now need to look around for a job and start applying!
When looking for a job, you can often apply in person by handing in your resume at a service counter. Some companies and organizations will also ask you to complete an application formeither on paper or online. Word of mouth is also important. Ask your friends and family if they know of places where you can apply for a job. Your local public libraries provide free public access to the Internet, and you can ask a librarian to show you where you can look for employment. Some companies only accept job applications online, either on their website or by email. If you dont have your own email, ask a safe and trusted adult like a parent, guardian, or teacher how to open an account. You can also check out a few websites online like Gmail.com or Hotmail.com.
Note that there are law s that protect all workers, including young workers. For more information about your rights, and what you can or cannot do at work, contact No va Scotias Labour Standards of fice www.novascotia.ca/la e/ labourstandards.

Here are some websites that list job openings:

Job Bank

www.jobbank.gc.ca

CareerBeacon www.careerbeacon.com/Nova-Scotia Federal Student Work Experience Program www.jobs-emplois.gc.ca/fswep-pfete/index-eng.php

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Other things to consider

Safety comes first!

When looking for a job, remember to read through the job posting. It is best to have a conversation with a safe and trusted adult like a parent, guardian or teacher if you are unsure about any part of the job advertisement. You also have a right to stop the application process if you feel that the job youre applying for is unsafe. Once you are hired somewhere, you also have the right to refuse any task that you feel is unsafe. Safety always comes first! For more information about workplace safety, check out: www.novascotia.ca/lae/healthandsafety.

Job Interviews

After applying for a job, the company or organization usually calls selected candidates for an interview. Usually interviews occur in person. Sometimes, an interview can happen over the phone. Sometimes, theres one person doing the interview; other times, it can be multiple people. They may ask you questions like why do you want the job?, what do you have to offer this organization?, and what are your strengths and weaknesses? You also need to know that there are some questions an employer cannot ask you, such as your ethnic background, (dis)ability, religion, gender, and personal beliefs. If you experience something like this, you can call the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission at 1-877-269-7699. Remember, the key to doing well in a job interview is preparation! Everyone needs to do work to get work. Check out this website for more information on how you can prepare for job interviews www.youth.gc.ca/eng/topics/jobs/interview.shtml

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Volunteering
One of the best ways to get experience, develop your skills and talents, and build your resume is to volunteer in your community. Volunteering is essentially working for free. You give your time and efforts to a local community group and help them run a program or event. There are many opportunities to lend a helping hand. The section Getting Involved and Giving Back, starting on page 98 of this guide, gives more information about how you can get involved in your community.

Transportation

Getting around, to and from school or work, is an important part of the puzzle. Some people will have friends and family to give them a lift from one place to another. Many students either take public transportation like the local bus, or get their own drivers licence. Several Nova Scotian municipalities and regions have public transit systems that make it easy and affordable to get around including Metro Transit in the Halifax Regional Municipality, Kings Transit in the Annapolis Valley and Transit Cape Breton in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. Metro Transit also operates ferries across Halifax Harbour. You can also check out Community Transit in your area ( www.communitytransitns.ca). As for getting your drivers licence for the very first time, you can apply for your Beginners Licence at age 16 to start learning how to drive. For more information, check out paal378.asp. www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/paal/RMV/

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MONEY MATTERS
Did you have a piggy bank when you were younger? Do you get an allowance from your parents? Do you already have a bank account? What do you do when you receive money as a present for your birthday or for Christmas? Are you saving up to purchase something special, like your first phone or your first car? Or maybe youre planning ahead and want to start saving up for a trip after high school, or to help pay for your college education.

Money is part of life, and here are some tips on how to handle it well:
Get informed and plan your goals. One day, you will need to learn about borrowing money, such as how to use credit List how much money you make at your job, cards, and how to manage loans, such as which is often called income, and list how student loans. much money you spend, called expenses. Create a budget that works for you. If you Consider picking up your piggy bank again and would like help, ask a safe and trusted adult. save! Put some money away Try to stick to your budget! Dont be to help you on a rainy day, discouraged if you dont. Learn from your or help you buy those big experiences and adjust your budget or your purchases in the future. spending habits.

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Paying for College or University

If you decide to attend university, college or a training program after high school, find out the cost of the program you are considering by looking at their website. Look for information on tuition fees, housing, books, and supplies and on financial assistance, such as scholarship, grants, and bursaries. Your school can help you locate this kind of information. Then, you can plan ahead with your budgeting plans. Know as well that you can consider applying for a student loan to help afford school after high school, so you can get the training and education you need to get your dream job. Dont let the need to get a student loan stop you from fulfilling your dreams. Many people have student loans! Its important to be aware that you are likely to pay back your student loan with interest. We encourage you to have a conversation with safe and trusted adults like your parents, guardians, teachers and guidance counselors.
For more information on student loans, check out: www.studentloans.ednet.ns.ca Nova Scotia Student Assistance www.canlearn.ca/eng/postsec/index.shtml Canada Student Loan www.psds.ednet.ns.ca Post-Secondary Disability Services For more information on how to budget and manage your money, visit the following websites: www.youth.gc.ca/eng/topics/money/ Services for youth manage_finances.shtml How banks work literacy www.yourmoney.cba.ca/banks_financial_ www.fcac-acfc.gc.ca/ft-of/ieb-eng.

Income, expenses, budget html

www.ic.gc.ca/app/scr/oca-bc/ssc/ My expenses calculator expense.html?lang=eng

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G N I T T D E E G VOLV G N I V I G K N I C BA
D N A

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What did YOU do for others that made you feel good about yourself TODAY?
Want to put your head on your pillow at night knowing youve done something positive for your community?
Volunteering provides many benefits for yourself and others. As a young person, youre able to contribute and get to know new friends and mentors, and build your resum which opens new opportunities in the future. For others, needs are met and communities are more vibrant when young people are included.

SO
Changing the status quo starts with you.
Stand up Speak out Express what you love Volunteer Get involved Give back

L P

TS A H

N E

T T U

E R E

. Y T

FO

U O Y

There is something for everyone.

To look through volunteering opportunities, check out www.getinvolved.ca

Think about the different things you care about! It may be caring for the environment or anti-racism, reading a book, or playing an instrument. Whatever youre passionate about and whatever your skills, there are plenty of ways to get involved in your community. There are many organizations and local events looking for volunteers like you.

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Some volunteering suggestions

Youth Secretariat www.novascotia.ca/coms/families/youthsecretariat The Government of Nova Scotias Youth Secretariat: Increases awareness of the needs and aspirations of youth Increases support to and services for youth Continues advice and recommendation to government including programs and services issues that affect youth. Their webpage gives information on youth events and opportunities, and youth programs and services that could help you look for volunteering opportunities throughout Nova Scotia. YWCA Youth Advisory Council www.ywcahalifax.com/children-youth-and-family/youth/youthadvisory-council A volunteer group of dedicated young women, ages 1630, who assist with the planning and management of the YWCAs Youth Program. HRM Youth www.halifax.ca/hrmyouth/volunteer HRM Volunteer Services www.halifax.ca/volunteerservices The Halifax Regional Municipalitys volunteer webpage provides useful information that can help you connect to organizations and events looking for volunteers within HRM. This includes volunteer tutoring and reading programs, Habitat for Humanity, and volunteer opportunities within the Halifax Regional Police Youth Program and the Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment. Kings Volunteer Resource Centre www.kingsvolunteerresourcescentre.ca The Kings Volunteer Resource Centre promotes, builds capacity, provides leadership, and raises awareness about volunteerism. Most importantly, it connects people with opportunities to get involved in their local communities. Womens Centres Connect! www.womenconnect.ca

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Womens Centres throughout Nova Scotia are dedicated to achieving equity and equality for all women and girls. There are a number of volunteer opportunities for young women through your local Womens Centre.

HELP SOMEONE ELSE

Its good advice when youre feeling blue: help someone else and youll feel a lot better about yourself and your life. Find a charity that you believe is important and donate some time to it. Try the local food bank or seniors centre. They welcome volunteers and can use your help.

Check out HeartWood www.heartwood.ns.ca. Its a Centre for Community Youth Development offering youth several leadership and training opportunities like Leaders of Today at www.leadersoftoday.ca

GO GREEN
The Nova Scotia Youth Conservation Corps (NSYCC) can give you environmental experience and training by putting you to work on a community project. Check out their website www.clean.ns.ca/ programs/communityengagement/nova-scotiayouth-conservation-corps-2. You can also check out the HRM Adventure Earth Centre www.earthed.ns.ca. They offer young people programs on environmental education, youth leadership, and outdoor recreation.

The Nova Scotia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSSPCA) welcomes your help. You dont have to be an animal expert to help out at your communitys shelter. You just need to have a little time and want to lend a helping hand. They believe everyone has skills and talents the shelter can use. Check out their website www.spcans.ca/volunteer.html

FOR ANIMAL LOVERS

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HOW WONDERFUL IT IS

THAT NOBODY NEED WAIT

BEFORE STARTING TO IMPROVE THE WORLD

s dvis otian outh A Y a i va Sc t o o N c S g n ova f you The N oup o r ise g y o adv tar h n w u , l 4 o 2 eeds is a v 15 to the n es of h g t a i w e en th aling f betwe rs de e t t ess o a tiven on m c t e f n e f nm the e Gover new outh, y f o on of s i t n a r e e onc he cr bers and c and t l mem i s c m n a u r o rog ces. C ing p ore servi d exist n out m a , d s n e i i f olic r. To ams, p a yea s e r of m progr i r t membe u o a f e t as becom at le ly to p meet p a or to ation m r o f in 972. ) 424-5 2 0 9 ( , call NSYAC unci or y Co AC l (NSY )

A SINGLE MINUTE

- Anne Frank

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d The Duke of Edinburghs Award empow ers young people, ages 14 to 25, to m ake a differ ence in their own lives and th e lives of ot hers, by exploring their potenti al, taking on new challenges, giving back to their com munities, an achieving su d ccess. It prov ides the oppo rt u n to set goals ity and achieve results in fu n and challenging ways. For mor e informatio n, check out their web site www.dukeofed .org.

Duke of Edin

burghs Awar

Mikmaq Nat ive Friendshi p Centre The Mikmaq Na tive Friendsh ip Centre prov ides an inclusive ga thering spac e for commun ity events an functions. Th d ey also prov ide social-bas ed pr for urban Ab ogramming original Peop le like the Ki tpu youth program wher e its mission is to develop and nurture the Aborigin al leaders of tomorrow by using first nation teach ings of the Me dicine Wheel. This program provides an atmosphere th at welcomes th e unity of the youth and elders. It promotes part icipation between differ ent cultures that are repr esented in the local comm unity. For mo re informatio n, check out www.mymnfc.com /kitpu-youth -centre.

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Many
NS Secondary School Students Association Girl Guides of Canada (Nova Scotia)
Girls Guides of Canada is an organization dedicated for girls and women. It provides fun and learning activities for girls to develop skills, confidence, and community. They have programs throughout Nova Scotia, so check out their website for more information www.girlguides.ns.ca.

ways to participate
The Nova Scotia Secondary School Students Association (NSSSA) is a non-profit organization run by students that focuses on leadership development at the high school level. Every high school student is a member of the NSSSA, and there are regional groups in the following areas: Cape Breton Victoria, Strait, Chignecto, Metro, Southwest, and the Valley. The organization promotes communication among the students in Nova Scotia, and they provide many opportunities to participate such as conferences, retreats, and committees. For more information, check out their www.nsssa.ca. website

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Participating Online
In todays digital world of smart phones and the Internet, there are many more ways to communicate with others and make our voices heard in visual formmay it be through our status updates, photos we upload, or text messages we send. We can engage through social media to share our thoughts and passions on any particular issue, to help others and improve our communities. Share your voice and vision for the world today. There are many social media platforms where you have the potential to reach many people from around the world. One way you can be seen and heard in cyberspace is through writing for Teens Now Talk Magazine. It is a Halifax-based magazine, written by teens for teens, filling a very real need in Atlantic Canada. This powerful tool gives teens the chance to express themselves and be published. For more information, check out their website www.teensnowtalk.com.

Remember to be a responsible digital citizenengage safely and respectfully.

For more information about online safety for girls, check out www.cybersafegirl.ca and www.antibullying.novascotia.ca, or read more on page 60 of this Guide.

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The United

Nations

www.un.org
is a meeting place for all nations around the world to discuss different issues that affect their countries and their people, and a place where they can find common solutions to addressing them.

Many schools participate in Model United Nations called Model UN projects to give students of all ages the opportunity to experience what the United Nations forum feels like. Through the Model UN, students like you can get an opportunity to learn about countries around the world. You could be a UN delegate from Algeria or New Zealand, and talk to your friends and classmates while they represent other countries like China or Sweden. If they dont, consider starting one! This website is a good place to start to get more information about Model UN www.un.org/cyberschoolbus/modelun/start.html

Ask your social studies teacher if your school has a team.

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For opportunities across Canada and around the world, check out:
Volunteer Canada Get Involved Canada World Youth www.volunteer.ca www.getinvolved.ca www.canadaworldyouth.org

The Youth Zone of the Canadian International Development Agency www.acid-cida.gc.ca/youth

Did you know that there are eight community-based womens centres across Nova Scotia?
They offer different services, programs, and resources for women of all agesincluding girls and teens like you! For example, the LEA Place Womens Centre in Sheet Harbour runs a Girl Power Day Camp in the summer, while the Second Story Womens Centre in Lunenburg runs a four-day camp called Girl Talk. The Antigonish Womens Resource Centre in Antigonish has a school-based violence prevention program called Healthy Relationship for Youth, and the Tri-County Womens Centre in Yarmouth, Shelburne, and Digby has completed the Youth Truth Matters project, which centred on youth being the leaders on addressing drugs in the community. For more information about the Womens Centre in Nova Scotia, go to Womens Centre Connect www.womenconnect.ca.

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Politics is for everyone. If you care about the decisions that happen in your schools, your communities, in Nova Scotia, in Canada, and around the worldthen you can relate to a thing or two about politics, leadership and government. Even if youre not old enough to vote, you can still be involved and still be a part of the conversation. Young people are becoming more and more politically aware and involved. You might not be concerned about the next wastewater treatment facility, but you might want to share what you think about municipal council opening a new park, or your school administrators decision about a new dress code in your school.

Student Council

Student councils are a great way to get involve and organize around school issues you care about. Primary, secondary and post-secondary schools have student organizations that you can participate in if this is something that interests you. Other community groups, such as sports teams or your neighbourhood organizations can also provide leadership opportunities for you to explore.

When you turn 18, you can also vote in all kinds of elections where you can pick which politician best represents what you want and believe in for yourself and your community. At 18, you can vote in municipal, provincial and federal elections. You can even consider to run for office one day! Canadian provincial and federal governments are formed by elected representatives who belong to political parties, while municipal government elections do not have party politics. Political parties usually have an association for their young members.

Its Your Right to VOTE!

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W E B S I T E S

CHECK THEM OUT

F E A T U R E D
Elections Canada
www.elections.ca

A B O U T

P O L I T I C S

W E B S I T E S

www.electionsnovascotia.ca

Elections Nova Scotia

www.greenparty.ca www.liberal.ns.ca

Green Party of Canada

Nova Scotia Liberal Party Nova Scotia New Democratic Party Progressive Conservative Party of Nova Scotia
www.pcparty.ns.ca www.ndpcaucus.ns.ca

REPRESENTATIVE

YOU

O U T OF TH E W ORD

CAN YOU MAKE

MANY FIND

WORDS

HOW MANY WORDS

HOW CAN

ACTIVISM COMMUNITY COUNCIL DEBATE ELECTIONS ENGAGEMENT FREEDOM HOPE JUSTICE LEADERSHIP MEDIA MENTOR MODEL PEACE POLITICS ROLE SERVICE SOCIAL STUDENT VOLUNTEER VOTE

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A
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O D G A E H

G E INV T

OLVED

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Resources in Nova Scotia

Listed in the next few pages are some resources available for girls across Nova Scotia. It is not a comprehensive list. We encourage you to refer to the most current and accurate information from each organization.
Mikmaq Native Friendship Centre www.mymnfc.com Nova Scotia Communities, Culture and Heritage www.novascotia.ca/cch Nova Scotia Virtual Archives www.gov.ns.ca/nsarm/virtual Office of Immigration www.novascotiaimmigration.ca Womens Federation of Acadian Nova Scotia www.ffane.ca

Addiction Services
Addiction Services www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/addictions Al-Anon www.freewebs.com/alanonmaritimes Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselling Association of Nova Scotia www.nadaca.ca Youth Truth Matters (YTM) Project www.youthtruthmatters.com

Education and Employment

Black Business Initative www.bbi.ca Black Educators Association www.theblackeducators.ca CanLearn www.canlearn.ca Careerbeacon www.careerbeacon.com Careers Nova Scotia www.careers.novascotia.ca Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Developments Youth Employability Project www.ceed.ca Centre for Women in Business www.centreforwomeninbusiness.ca Council on African Canadian Education www.cace.ns.ca Employment Support Services www.novascotia.ca/coms/employment/ index.html Federal Student Work Experience www.jobs-emplois.gc.ca/fswep-pfete/ index-eng.php Government of Canada: Youth Services www.youth.gc.ca

Cultural Awareness and Anti-Discrimination

Aboriginal Affairs www.novascotia.ca/abor Acadian Affairs www.novascotia.ca/acadian African Nova Scotian Affairs www.ansa.novascotia.ca Association of Black Social Workers www.nsasw.org Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia www.bccns.com Gaelic Affairs www.gov.ns.ca/oga Human Rights Commission www.humanrights.gov.ns.ca MANS - Multicultural Association of Nova Scotia www.mans.ns.ca

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Human Resource Development Centers www.hrsdc.gc.ca Job Bank www.jobbank.ca Job Junction www.jobjunction.ca National Student Loans Service Centre www.nslsc.canlearn.ca Nova Scotia Department of Education and Early Childhood Development www.ednet.ns.ca Nova Scotia Department of Education and Early Childhood Developments Options and Opportunities www.ednet.ns.ca/O2 Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education www.novascotia.ca/lae Nova Scotia Student Loan Office www.studentloans.ednet.ns.ca Phoenix Learning and Employment Centre www.phoenixyouth.ca/youth/learningemployment-centre Techsploration www.techsploration.ca Women Unlimited www.weesociety.ca Youth Live www.halifax.ca/youthlive YWCA Halifax www.ywcahalifax.com

Family Resource Centres

AKOMA Center www.akoma.ca Apple Tree Landing Childrens Centre www.nsnet.org/appletreelanding Bayers Westwood Family Support Services www.bayerswestwoodfrc.com

Better Together Family Resource Centre www.southshorefamilyresource.org/ include/lunenburg.htm Building Blocks Family Resource Centre 902-362-2227 Cape Bretons Family Place Resource Centre www.familyplace.ca Centre provincial de ressources prscolaires (Franais) www.cprps.ca Chester and Area Family Resource Centre www.chesterfamilycentre.ca Dartmouth Family Resource Centre www.dartmouthfamilycentre.ca Digby County Family Resource Centre 902-245-6464 East Preston Family Resource Centre 902-462-7266 Eastern Shore Family Resource Association www.esfamily.org Fairview Family Centre: Parent & Tot Meeting Place 902-443-9569 Family Matters - Annapolis County Family Resource Centre www.family-matters.ca Family Place Cape Breton Regional Municipality www.familyplace.ca Family Resource Centre of West Hants www.frcofwh.webs.com Greenwood Family Resource Centre www.cg.cfpsa.ca Halifax and Shearwater Military Family Resource Centre www.halifaxmfrc.ca Halifax Military Family Resource Centre www.halifaxmfrc.ca Home of the Guardian Angel www.homeoftheguardianangel.ca

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Kids First Family Resource Centre www.kids1st.ca King Street Family Resource Centre www.southshorefamilyresource.org/ include/shelburne.htm Kings County Family Resource Centre www.kcfrc.ca La Pirouette www.lapirouette.ca Maggies Place www.maggiesplace.ca Memory Lane Family Place www.memorylanefamilyplace.com Mikmaq Child Development Centre www.mymnfc.com/mi-kmaq-childdevelopment-centre Mikmaq Family Treatment Centre Truro 1-800-565-4741 Whycocomagh 1-800-565-3440 Native Council of Canada: Child Help Initiative Program www.ncns.ca/programs-services/ child-help-initiative-program-chip New Ross Family Resource Centre www.nrfrc.ca New Waterford Family Resource Centre 902-862-7140 North End Parent Resource Centre 902-492-0133 Parent Resource Centre 902-464-2203 Parents and Children Together www.parentsandchildrentogether.info Parents Place www.parentsplaceyarmouth.org Queens County Family Resource Centre www.southshorefamilyresource.org/ include/queens.htm

Single Parent Centre www.homeoftheguardianangel.ca South Shore Family Resource Association www.southshorefamilyresource.org St. Pauls Family Institute 902-479-1015 Ward 5 Community Centre www.ward5.org

For Persons with Disabilities

Affirmative Industries www.affirmativeindustries.ca Atlantic Provinces Special Education Authority www.apsea.ca Disabled Persons Commission www.disability.novascotia.ca Independent Living Nova Scotia www.ilns.ca Learning Disabilities Association of Nova Scotia www.ldans.ca ReachAblity www.reachability.org

Health and Sexuality

AIDS Coalition of Cape Breton www.aidscoalitionofcapebreton.ca AIDS Coalition of Nova Scotia www.acns.ns.ca BLT Teen Health Centre 902-876-4381 (ext. 3) Canadian Federation for Sexual Health www.cfsh.ca Lower Sackville Teen and Youth Clinic 902-869-6106 Nova Scotia Association for Sexual Health www.nssexualhealth.ca

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Planned Parenthood www.canadiansforchoice.ca/counseling. html Self Help Connection www.selfhelpconnection.ca Sexual Health Centres www.nssexualhealth.ca Stepping Stone www.steppingstonens.ca

YMCA School Settlement Program www.chs.ednet.ns.ca/ymca

Law and Legal Services

Coverdale Courtwork Services www.coverdalecourtwork.com Dalhousie Legal Aid www.dal.ca/faculty/law/dlas.html Elizabeth Fry Society www.efrynovascotia.com Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia www.legalinfo.org 902-420-1888 (not toll free) Nova Scotia Legal Aid www.nslegalaid.ca

Help Lines
211 www.ns.211.ca *911 www.emo.gov.ns.ca/content/911 Kids Help Phone www.kidshelpphone.ca 1-800-668-6868 Metro Help Line 902-421-1188 Nova Scotia Youth Help Line 1-800-420-8336 Pictou County Youth Help Line 902-752-5952 Sydney Youth Help Line 902-562-4357 Yarmouth Help Line 902-742-1331

LGBTI Network and Support

EGALE www.egale.ca Nova Scotia Rainbow Action Project www.nsrap.ca PFLAG www.community.pflag.org The Youth Project www.youthproject.ns.ca

Libraries Immigrant Support and Services

African Diaspora Association of the Maritimes www.adamns.ca Halifax Refugee Clinic www.halifaxrefugeeclinic.org 902-422-6736 Immigrant Settlement & Integration Services www.isisns.ca Annapolis Valley Public Library www.valleylibrary.ca Cape Breton Public Library www.cbrl.ca Colchester-East Hants Public Library www.lovemylibrary.ca Cumberland Public Libraries www.cumberlandpubliclibraries.ca Eastern Counties Regional Libraries www.ecrl.library.ns.ca

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Halifax Public Libraries www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library www.parl.ns.ca South Shore Public Libraries www.southshorepubliclibraries.ca Western Counties Regional Library www.westerncounties.ca

Online Safety and Anti-Bullying

Cybersafe Girl www.cybersafegirl.ca Government of Nova Scotia Anti-bullying Website www.antibullying.novascotia.ca NeedHelpNow.ca www.needhelpnow.ca Wired Safety www.wiredsafety.org

Mikmaq Family & Children Services of NS Bear River 902-467-3970 Eskasoni 1-800-565-8300 Shubenacadie 1-800-263-8686 Mikmaw Family Healing Centre www.thans.ca/Content/Mikmaw FHC Mikmaq Young Offender Project 902-379-2042 NS Domestic Violence Resource Centre www.nsdomesticviolence.ca Phoenix Youth Shelter www.phoenixyouth.ca

Volunteering Opportunities
Girl Guides of Canada www.girlguides.ns.ca Government of NS Youth Secretariat www.novascotia.ca/coms/families/ youthsecretariat Heartwood Centre for Community Youth Development www.heartwood.ns.ca HRM Volunteer Services www.halifax.ca/volunteerservices HRM Youth www.halifax.ca/hrmyouth/volunteer Kings Volunteer Resource Centre www.kingsvolunteerresourcecentre.ca NS Youth Advisory Council 902-424-5972

Violence Intervention and Protection

Avalon Sexual Assault Centre www.avaloncentre.ca Colchester Sexual Assault Centre www.nsdomesticviolence.ca/resourcemap/type/sexual-assault-services HRP Victim Services www.halifax.ca/police/programs/ victimservices.html LOVE (Leave Out Violence) www.leaveoutviolence.org/novascotia

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Womens Centres
Annapolis Royal: A Womans Place www.womensplaceresourcecenter.com Central Nova Womens Resource Centre www.cnwrc.weebly.com/services1.html Every Womans Centre 902-567-1212 LEA Place Womens Resource Centre www.leaplace.com Lunenburg: Second Story Womens Centre www.secstory.com Pictou County Womens Centre www.womenscentre.ca South House Sexual and Gender Resource Centre www.tigersociety.dsu.ca/organization/ southhouse Strait Area Womens Place www.straitareawomensplace. blogspot.ca Tri-County Womens Centre www.tricountywomenscentre.org Antigonish Womens Resource Centre and Sexual Assault Services Association www.antigonishwomenscentre.com

Youth Centres
Department of Health and Wellness Youth Health Centres www.gov.ns.ca/ohp/healthy_ development/sexuality-yhc.asp Mainland South Teen Health Centre 902-479-4281 North side Youth Help Centre 902-794-6245 Our House Youth Wellness Centre 1-877-469-6884 Phoenix Youth Programs: Health Services www.phoenixyouth.ca Spartan Lifestyle Program 902-464-2457 (Ext. 104) The Red Door www.thereddoor.ca Youth Centre New Waterford Youth Centre 902-862-9670 Sydney Youth Centre 902-567-1056 Glace Bay Youth Centre 902-842-1612 Youth on the Move Eastern Shore District High School 902-889-3581

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This third edition of Guide for Girls was published to celebrate International Day of the Girl on October 11th. This book was created especially for girls throughout Nova Scotia, and MANY people participated to make this resource possible. The Advisory Council on the Status of Women wishes to thank a number of individuals and organizations for their valued contribution including the following government departments and agencies:Office of Aboriginal Affairs, Office of Immigration, Office of African Nova Scotian Affairs, Acadian Affairs, Human Rights Commission, Education and Early Childhood Development, Labour and Advanced Education, Health and Wellness, Communities, Culture and Heritage, Community Services, Justice, and Communications Nova Scotia. The Advisory Council also thanks the numerous reviewers from community-based organizations across this province who provided feedback and suggestions in the revisions to this third edition. This project would not be possible without the generosity of your time. A special thank you needs to be extended to the NSCC graphic design students (Tara Andrews, Paul Adams, Carmen Fitzpatrick, Constance Tupper) and their educator, Crystal McManus, for the invaluable design contributions that kick started the updates to this Guide. Your enthusiasm has been captured in the pages of this book. Thank you. Project Manager: Jhoanna Gonzales Miners Production Coordinator: Etta Moffat Editor: Diane MacGregor Design: Kathy Kaulbach, Touchstone Design House Crown copyright, Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women, Province of Nova Scotia, 2013 All rights reserved. Permission is granted to reproduce all or part of this publication for noncommercial purposes, as long as you cite the following source: Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women. Guide for Girls (3rd ed). Halifax: Advisory Council on the Status of Women, 2013. ISBN: 978-1-55457-554-1 This book is available www.women.gov.ns.ca/g4g.html

For more information, contact the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women 6169 Quinpool Road, Suite 202, Halifax NS B3J 2T3 902-424-8662 Email: women@gov.ns.ca Web: www.women.gov.ns.ca

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