FOR PARENTS

Research has consistently shown that parents are the biggest influence
in their child’s/children’s decisions to use or not use alcohol and drugs.

This is great news because it means that you can help your children develop
the skills necessary for making healthy, positive decisions.

Here are a few simple ideas for how you can increase your influence:

10 TIPS FOR PARENTS

1. Be involved with and Listen to your kids
Take time to connect with and understand your child. Listening to what they tell you about their lives helps you see their perspective and connect in a genuine way. Research shows the kids are less likely to drink when their parents are involved in their lives and when they feel close to their parents.

2. “Do as I say, Do as I do”
You are your children’s most important role model. They notice everything you do. Two-thirds of kids say that fear of losing their parents’ respect is one of the main reasons they don’t use drugs

3. Eat dinner together on a regular basis

4. Recognize good behavior immediately and give positive feedback.

5. Talk with your child about alcohol and drugs early and often
When it comes to talking about drugs and alcohol, be clear with your kids’ about your expectations and talk to them early on. 45% of Gunnison school district 7th graders reported gaining access to alcohol would be “sort of easy“ or “very easy.” Prevention works best when it starts early.

6. Make sure you know all the “W”s when your child goes out
Ask who, what, when and where. Know who your child’s friends are, what your child is doing, when she’ll be home and where she’s going

7. Make a point of getting to know the parents of your child’s friends

8. Get your child involved in safe and supervised activities
Unstructured after-school hours are when many kids begin experimenting with drugs and alcohol. Gunnison has all kinds of options -- just find something they enjoy doing!

9. Educate yourself
Youth appreciate credible and accurate information. Educating yourself about drugs and alcohol allows you to be a good resource when your child has questions.

10. Know the laws and your liability
Underage drinking laws as well as laws regarding the liability of adults who provide alcohol to minors are quite stringent. Learn more about Colorado’s laws by visiting: http://www.alcoholpolicy.niaaa.nih.gov/stateprofiles/StateProfie.asp

>>> return to top