By addressing contributing factors such as peer pressure and ignorance, this program provides children with information they need in order to become better decision makers. Joanne represents the attitudes of uninformed people who perceive vandalism as a harmless activity.
Vandalism is a major problem in many areas and adversely affects the community in numerous ways.
Having to repair damaged property is expensive and time consuming, and causes negative feelings among community members. Often, vandalistic acts precede more serious criminal behavior, such as gang activity and hate crimes. Script material covers graffiti, how vandalism affects people, as well as, negative and positive peer pressure. The Kids on the Block Program on Vandalism Prevention is an educational puppet show created in 1977, featuring life size puppets that, through the magic of live puppet theatre, teach children and adults from a variety of educational differences, and social concerns. Through the hard work and dedication of many community based groups, The Kids on the Block puppets are able to touch the lives of people all over the world.