Beyond the Check-In
Beyond the Check-In is a resource hub designed to help parents, educators and schools navigate the complexities of student health — with practical tools, compassionate support and evidence-based guidance.
Health and well-being isn’t a one-time conversation — and “checking in” is just the beginning. These resources will help caregivers, teachers and other trusted adults take meaningful next steps.
Explore short videos, downloadable tools and real-world stories that inspire deeper understanding and action.Jump to Teacher Resources >>
Resources for Parents & Caregivers
Raising a child today can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to their emotional and mental well-being.
You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need a place to start.
Use the resources in this section to have meaningful conversations, recognize signs of struggle, and build trust that lasts.
Parent Conversation Starters
Download this free resource to start meaningful, age-appropriate conversations with your child around social health, mental health and personal safety. Each topic includes discussion prompts and tips to guide open, judgment-free dialogue.Elementary School (PDF)
Middle School (PDF)
High School (PDF)
Health Ed 101 Parent Flyer
This free resource gives an overview of what students learn in health education and why it matters. It helps families understand the goals, topics and benefits of health education while addressing common questions about health education class.Select Flyer (PDF)
Video Resources
Parent Video: Full Version
In “Empowering Parent-Student Dialogues About Health,” parents and caregivers will find practical tips for supporting their child’s health education and building media literacy at home. Experts explore how media influences adolescent decision-making and offer strategies for fostering open, informed conversations about mental, social and personal health.
Select your child’s grade level below to view parent video on YouTube:Elementary SchoolMiddle SchoolHigh SchoolResources for Educators
You see your students every day — and often notice the first signs when something’s off. And because you know even small moments can shift a student’s life, you want to make those moments count.
The resources in this section provide practical strategies to support student mental health without needing to be a mental health expert.
Social Media Toolkit
This toolkit promotes the Beyond the Check-in resources, offering ready-to-use posts to help start meaningful conversations about social, mental and personal health. Use the toolkit to raise awareness, encourage dialogue, and empower parents and caregivers to connect with their children.
What Works in Schools
This document highlights the CDC’s What Works in Schools framework, guiding educators, administrators and school staff in promoting adolescent health and well-being through quality health education, health services and safe, supportive environments.
Health Education in Schools 101
This resource is a parent-friendly overview of what students learn in health education and why it matters. It helps families understand the goals, topics and benefits of health education while addressing common questions about health education class.
Video Resources
Educator Videos
These videos explore how media literacy can strengthen health education, equipping teachers with strategies to help students navigate social, mental and personal health topics with confidence.
Hear from experts at SHAPE America, Cairn Guidance, Pinnacle Partnerships and NAMLE as they share practical approaches for supporting diverse learners and fostering critical thinking about media’s impact on health.
This opportunity was developed by SHAPE America and funded by way of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $500,000 that is 100% funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
