Through our research on Healthy Spines we asked what parents, students and teachers think of the program. Here are some examples of what they told us.

"The program was worthwhile, an excellent way to inform youth - the children learnt a lot."

"I wish I had a program like this when I was at school."

"I am very happy that you teach my child how to look after their spine."

"Only seating arrangements in classroom have changed but its better than nothing."

"Thank you for going to the trouble of going to our school and highlighting the importance of each student caring for their back. My husband has suffered much with his over the past 2 years. We appreciate your influence and education of our young ones in this area and know it will certainly prevent future spinal problems in many lives."

"After asking my child what he had gained from the experience he told me he had learnt of ways to look after his spine and I thought therefore that it was valuable."

"I liked the games we played because they were fun but they also helped us to learn."

"It helps us learn the good and bad stuff about our spines and it helps us know what to do and not do."

"I liked it because we learnt and we did fun activities and I think more people should know about this."

"I liked the way we got to talk about it and give our opinions."

"The school is putting bins in new places and getting a better sprinkler system (underground one)."

"They are changing the kindy kids playground and they bought some tables that go up and down - they're adjustable."

"Very good program, excellent content and well structured."

"The program activities were effective in getting the message across and held student's attention."

"It has potential to be extended and incorporated into classroom teaching [in other areas of the curriculum]. In fact, both the content and process has been applied and built upon in our class."

"Valuable experience for both children and I, and we began addressing spinal health issues both during and after program, using key reminder phrases, changing furniture and checking the weight of backpacks."

"Definite impact/excellent - the practical applications have been good and we continue to use the pipe cleaner/lego/string spine concept to remind students regularly about posture, or use the key phrase "Spinal Check" and children correct their own posture."

"I had a discussion with the librarian to have the children do written work at tables rather than bent over on the floor."