Prevention Begins with YOU
Children report that PARENTS are a major reason they choose not to use alcohol/drugs. Therefore, you are the most powerful influence with your child’s behavior. It is important to build your relationship with your child so that there is open communication with consistent messages about the use of Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs. This will encourage them to come to you for help in making decisions as well as create a home where they are aware of household rules that have values that will keep them safe and healthy. If they are aware of your personal beliefs, it will create an environment of trust and understanding.
The community and their peers will give them mixed messages about the use of substances, be certain that they are getting the correcting information from YOU! Your children need this information to make good decisions. Do not wait for situations to arise talk to them before so that if they are approached with a situation, they have the skills and knowledge to deal with it.
Take Action
- Talk early and often with your child. Establish and maintain an open line of communication. If you get into the habit of talking with your child every day, it will be easier for you to have these types of conversations. Don’t assume that your child knows where you stand.
- Get involved with your child’s every day life. Talk with you child about their activities, this will allow for you to share with common interests and values. Young people are much less likely to have mental health and substance abuse problems if they are involved in positive activities and have caring adults involved in their lives.
- Be a good Role Model. Think about what you say and how you act in front of your child. Your actions are the most powerful message that your child will see for what is acceptable and what is not acceptable. Do not partake in illegal, unhealthy or dangerous practices with alcohol, tobacco or other drugs. If you child witnesses you do this, they will think that this is an acceptable behavior.
- Teach kids to choose friends wisely. Teach your child how to form positive relationships. Help your child to understand what qualities to look for in a friend.
- Monitor your child’s activities. Know where you children are and get acquainted with their friends. Limit the amount of time your child spends without adult supervision. They will then have less time to experiment.
- Set Rules. Make clear, sensible rules for your child and enforce them with consistency and appropriate consequences. Following these rules can help protect your child’s physical safety and mental well-being.