Parents often try to be friends
with their children. It's more important to be a
parent - to establish rules, set limits and help children learn to be safe and
healthy.
Did you know that statistics show teens use alcohol and drugs for an average of
six months before parents find out? Want to beat the statistics?
Research indicates
that teens are less likely to drink when their parents are
involved in their lives and when they and their parents report feeling close to
each other. (Journal
of Studies on Alcohol)
Studies also
show that young people are less likely to use alcohol if their parents set clear
rules about not doing so.
Rulemaking tips:
v Set
clear rules and discuss in advance the consequences of breaking them
v Consistently
enforce the rules
v Have teens
check in at regular times when they are away from home or school
v Call
parents whose home is used for a party (Offer to help with snacks or
supervision)
v
Make it
easy for your teen to leave a party where alcohol or drugs are
being used
v
Listen to
your instincts. Don’t be afraid to intervene if your gut reaction
tells you something is wrong
v
Use
“teachable moments” to talk to your teen about alcohol use
A
recent Gallop survey found that 94% of Americans feel that it is their
responsibility to “speak up” to a friend or loved one who has a problem with
alcohol or other drugs. But, only 38% feel very confident or comfortable
doing it.
