The Hugs Not Drugs program can help prepare a solid, anti-drug foundation for our children before they are pressured into experimenting with life-threatening substances. Each assembly has a trained representative of the B.E.A.R. Foundation who leads a 45-minute program. The session begins with an open discussion between the students and the monitor about drugs, alcohol and nicotine. New to the Hugs Not Drugs Program is Mr. Nopuffin, a comical bird that assists the presenter in teaching children about the dangers of smoking. Unpleasant health effects are discussed while various myths and facts are explored. During the assembly, students are invited to participate by joining the presenter in acting out both negative and positive peer pressure situations. Following the discussion, the students are delighted to meet Huggie Bear, an adult in a specially-designed bear costume. Huggie assists the monitor during a special question and answer period. Students are encouraged to take the Huggie Bear pledge and to become a member of his club. The monitor fields any additional questions the students might have before the assembly ends.