Colorado Health and Physical Education Summit 2026

This presentation examines digital media overuse (DMO) as a form of behavioral addiction and its impact on youth mental health and academic functioning. Negative outcomes related to different kinds of use, especially when screen time displaces essential developmental activities such as sleep, physical activity, academic work, and face-to-face social interaction will be discussed. Mental health related outcomes  like  increased risk of depression, social isolation, and suicide-related issues are shared. The presentation highlights how digital platforms are intentionally designed to exploit core psychological needs; competence, relatedness, and autonomy, thereby reinforcing compulsive use patterns. Particular risks are outlined across domains including gaming, social media, AI chatbots, online shopping, gambling pathways, and early exposure to pornography. Vulnerability is heightened among youth with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and executive functioning challenges. Prevention and intervention strategies that are focused on reducing screen time, strengthening real-world social connections, and promoting “low dopamine” activities such as outdoor play, reading, and exercise will be discussed. Practical guidance includes establishing screen boundaries, prioritizing developmental tasks, and fostering open, empathetic communication with youth.

During this session, trainers will discuss and model key components of effective Anatomy and Puberty education that are aligned with HB 19-1032 and Colorado State Health Standards. Trainers will model strategies to make Anatomy and Puberty education inclusive, fun and engaging and provide opportunities for participants to engage with the material.

Today’s students are navigating complex social pressures, mental health challenges, and risky behaviors at younger ages than ever before. This session introduces a powerful suite of free, research‑based digital resources from EVERFI designed to help Health and PE teachers strengthen students’ decision‑making, resilience, and overall well‑being.
Through hands‑on demonstrations and ready‑to‑use classroom strategies, attendees will learn how to integrate these digital tools to build healthy habits, and support students in making safe, informed choices. From elementary to high school, elevate your health curriculum and empower students to thrive—physically, emotionally, and socially.

This session equips participants with practical, confidence-building strategies for facilitating comprehensive sex education (CSE). Grounded in trauma-informed care and hands-on, skills-based approaches, it emphasizes both personal reflection and collaborative learning. Participants will explore their own methods for building confidence while working together to develop engaging, skill-focused strategies for delivering sexual health content. By the end of the session, attendees will walk away with actionable tools to strengthen their confidence, elevate youth voice and engagement, and integrate creative, impactful projects into their sexual health curriculum.