A programme that uses puppets to teach children about healthy life choices is being introduced to the Island's private schools.

The Al's Pals Programme was introduced to Bermuda's public schools this year 60 preschool teachers, paraprofessionals and school administers were trained in March.

This month, preschool teachers from the private sector received training. In February, primary one and two teachers will be invited to participate.

Minister of Culture and Social Rehabilitation Neletha Butterfield said on Friday: "The Al's Pals Programme allows the students to participate actively in the activities without difficulty and receive long lasting and encouraging messages for positive decision making."

Sue Geller, president of the company Wingspan, that created the programme, said: "The training went absolutely fabulously. The reaction has been extremely positive. They can't wait to get it in their classrooms.

"It teaches children in a developmentally appropriate way. It's fun, it's engaging and it's at a level the children can understand."