Youth Eastside Services Lifeline Online
June 2012 

Marijuana Use on the Rise with Teenscouple on dock
How do you talk with your kids about marijuana 
in the age of legalization?

A recent report by The Partnership at Drugfree.org brings to light a concerning trend among kids--the increased use and acceptance of marijuana. The report notes that teens' regular use of marijuana has increased 42% since 2008. To those of us working in youth substance abuse treatment, this is no surprise, as for some time marijuana has been the primary drug for kids in drug treatment. With summer fast approaching, now is a good time to have a talk with your kids and take some steps to encourage healthy choices. Here are some tips and additional information to help you.

If you are finding it more difficult to discuss the dangers of drugs, especially marijuana given the climate of legalization, YES is hosting a class June 27th that will provide some helpful information and guidance. Click here for an informational flyer.

ParentsParenting through Separation or Divorce
Help for families during this difficult time 
 
Divorce can be a time of grief for a child. Parental turmoil, conflicting discipline styles, and re-arranged schedules can produce additional stress. Research shows that children of separated families have a higher risk of behavioral problems and performance issues in school, and the ability for the child to adjust is greatly affected by how the parents deal with the separation. YES is hosting a parenting class this Friday, June 8th to help parents navigate this trying time with their kids. Click here for more information. 

 

In the News    reading paper

Important information you want to know 

 

Some teens may be wired for addiction--In the largest imaging study of the adolescent brain ever conducted, scientists report that some teenagers may be more inclined to experiment with drugs and alcohol. Click here for the full story.

Avoid an over scheduled summer--Though keeping kids busy is good, be careful not to over schedule summer activities. Click here for ideas on finding a balance between structured activities and free time.

Another dangerous game--Kids are using salt and ice to create burns and injure themselves. They are learning about this, and other dangerous "games," from YouTube. Parents may be wise to visit YouTube and stay current on top videos. Click here for the full story. 

 
Help Kids Enjoy Camp This Summer
Provide supplies for our Therapeutic Summer Camp

The YES Explorers Therapeutic Summer Camp Program enables kids, who receive school-based counseling, to continue receiving treatment in summer and have a fun camp experience. These kids are low income and many would not have any summer activities if not for this camp. You or your group can help by donating any or all of the following items needed by the 40 elementary-age kids attending YES summer programs:
 
* Sunscreen
* Beach Towel
* Journal and Markers
* Hat or Cap
* Sunglasses
* Insulated Lunch Bag

For more information, email, or call 425.747.4937, extension 2714. Donations must be received at the YES Bellevue Office by Friday, June 15.

 


The need to keep learning is perhaps never more important than when we are parents. As our kids change, and the environment around them changes, we need to adapt and learn new and better ways to advise them, communicate, and keep them safe. To help parents, YES has launched a Speakers Bureau with a number of topical 1-hour parent presentations. Invite YES to your next school, work or faith-based group meeting. Click here for a list of topics, or share your ideas. Our parent education survey also offers an anonymous way to tell us how, what, where and when you'd like to learn about important parenting topics.


We're never done learning and what better place to get advice than from the organization parents on the Eastside have trusted since 1968. See you in class!

Sincerely,

  
Patti Skelton-McGougan 
Executive Director