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As school winds down, many of our calendars begin filling up with graduation parties, end-of-school celebrations, and summer gatherings. Parents. The Anti-Drug wishes you a happy celebration season and offers the following tips to
keep it safe:
- Be aware that these celebrations may create new or additional pressures and opportunities for underage drinking.
- If you are planning a party of your own and alcohol will be available for your adult guests, make sure that it is being closely supervised and that it is not accessible to underage guests.
- Even if you don't buy the alcohol for your teen's party, they may get it from older friends or siblings. Make sure to monitor the party closely and talk to guests when they arrive and leave.
- If your teens will be going to a party, call the parents who will be hosting to verify that they will be home and that no alcohol or drugs will be present.
- Consider alternatives to celebrating at home. Host a bowling party, treat your teen and some of his/her friends to a nice dinner, go in with other parents to rent a space and have a DJ. These situations can be more closely monitored, have more supervision, and create more opportunities for drug and alcohol-free fun!
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| Staying Connected |
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As we celebrate these transitions in our child's life, it is easy to forget how many physical, environmental, and social changes our kids face. New schools, new peers, new pressures, and new freedoms are just some of these changes. For many it is a period of enormous uncertainty. The accompanying stress can trigger unhealthy decisions such as using drugs or drinking. While parents remain the #1 influence, peers emerge as a critical influence during these times. Make sure to stay connected in your teen's life and get to know their friends and their friends' families.
We encourage everyone to Take Time to Talk. Teens going through a transition period may need some additional positive reinforcements. Encourage your teen to come to you with any concerns they have. Talk to other parents to gather advice and perspectives on how they helped their children cope with the additional pressures.
For more information, visit www.theantidrug.com.
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