Child Development Project (CDP)

Grades: K-6

Contact: Denise Wood
Developmental Studies Center
2000 Embarcadero, Suite 305
Oakland, CA 94606-5300
Phone: 800/666-7270, FAX: 510/464-3670
E-mail: info@devstu.org

The Child Development Project (CDP) is a school-improvement initiative designed by the Developmental Studies Center of Oakland, CA which, by transforming elementary schools into "caring communities of learners," significantly reduced children's use of alcohol and illicit drugs while dramatically increasing the children's resilience to substance use. CDP scientifically demonstrates that nurturing a student's intrinsic desire to learn, cultivating supportive relationships, and promoting the child's sense of common purpose and commitment to pro-social values are effective protection against the risk of substance use.

Participant schools demonstrated decreased substance use, increased liking for school, enjoyment of class, and motivation to learn. They also showed greater skill at resolving conflicts and an increased sense of social competence.

CASEL, Promising Program
Center for Substance Abuse Prevention, Model Program, (PDF)
National Diffusion Network, 1996
US DOE Expert Panel, Exemplary Program