Carol Scott, Grade 5 teacher, OCDSB

"Denial is both a useful game to use during a health unit on substance abuse and as a game for pleasure playing. The students found that the game helps to reinforce making good choices in difficult situations. The game sustained interest, even after playing several times. It frequently became a game of choice during inclement weather, as popular as games such as Monopoly and Teacher Quiz.

Some student comments were: "It's fun to play." "It asks us questions that we might have to answer if we were at a real party." "I like the way the board is set up."

Many of the game cards were also used during unit lessons as cards to elicit further discussions as applicable to real life situations that the students might find themselves in. I highly recommend the game of Denial as a game to be purchased and used in Junior grades."

Murray, Department Head of Religious Education

"I am pleased to let you know that having played this game with my children I have found it to have stimulated many discussions on topics that are important for them to discuss before they encounter them in real life  situations. As a parent I find it increasingly difficult to broach these topics, preparing them for their eventual experiences, without the anticipated response of "oh dad"! This game gives the children a voice to give their own reponses and to ask questions is a safe and loving environment.

As a Department Head of Religious Education, I find the game to be an excellent tool to stimulate discussions with young adults who have already encountered these issues or perhaps are even participating in these high risk activities. We are constantly looking for simulations to allow the students to explore answers to difficult questions in a non-threatening, learning environment. This game supports many of the curriculum areas that we currently cover."

Jeannette Labelle, Grandmother

"I can still remember the keen reaction and interest my four young grandchildren (aged 8 - 13) had when they played Denial at the cottage. Some of the questions may not have been relevant to all of them at this point in their lives. However, I sincerely hope that when they are faced with any of these unpleasant but oh-so-predictable situations as they go through their adolescence, the consequences of good and bad choices that were put to them while playing Denial will pop into their minds at the right moment.

It is naive for any parent to believe their child or children, no matter how well brought up or how well behaved, are immune to these temptations, often as the result of peer pressure. Any means that are available to help children deal successfully with the hurdles that life will inevitably throw in their paths should be taken. Your game, Denial, would certainly be one of them.

If Denial saves even one child from the misery and desperation of a life dependent on drugs and alcohol, it will have been worth it. Hopefully, it will save many, many more."

Donna Barry, All Saints Catholic School

Last semester I allowed all my grade 9 religion students to play the game at various times throughout the semester. All the students found the game to be enjoyable to play and informative. The choices they were faced with were relevant and encouraged moral reasoning. These students were 13 - 14 years old. It worked very well with this age group. I highly recommend the game to those who work with pre teens and young teens.