Parenting Tips

When you talk to your pre teen or teen about alcohol and drugs, they are less likely to try them.

Because Every Parent Can Use a Little Help.

It’s not easy being a parent. There are so many different “hats” you have to wear: family chauffeur, chef, homework expert, rule enforcer, organizer and budget director. Plus, you’re expected to be an expert on everything!

When your child enters middle school, he or she begins the road to independence, and the older they get, the less it seems they listen. That’s why it’s important to arm yourself with information and tools to help your children avoid the dangers of alcohol and drugs now.

Monitor the Alcohol Supply in Your Home.

If you keep alcohol at home, make sure to monitor it. Keep alcohol locked away, or monitor the alcohol levels in the bottles. Make sure you tell your child that you don’t allow drinking, or unchaperoned parties or teen gatherings in your home. Kids need adult supervision. It’s part of what parenting is all about.

Connect With Other Parents.

Get to know the parents of the friends your child is socializing with. It will make it easier to ask them about parties they are hosting for their children, and if alcohol will be served. It’s also easier to help each other watch out for your children and their behavior. Do not allow your children to attend parties that aren’t supervised.

Stay Involved and Aware of Your Child’s Activities.

Be aware of your child’s plans and whereabouts. It’s a simple way to let them know you care about them, what they’re doing, and who their friends are. It’s not about not trusting them. Let them know you care, even if you can’t be together.

Encourage Your Child to Choose Friends Wisely.

If your child’s friends drink alcohol, your child is more likely to do so. It’s important to encourage your child to choose friends that make healthy and wise decisions. It’s also important for you to spend time with your child’s friends. Invite them and their families to a gathering at your home, so you can get to know them better. And talk to your child about the qualities to look for in a friend: honesty, trustworthiness, kindness, etc. Explain why these qualities are more important than how “cool” or “popular” they are.

It’s a challenging situation if you disapprove of or dislike one of your child’s friends. Rather than forbidding your child to associate with the friend, talk to them about why you have concerns about the friendship, or the child’s character. Limit your child’s time with the friend, or only let them socialize when you are with them.