| Greetings! |
Going back to school signifies a time of exciting, new beginnings. But it can also be a challenging time, with added peer pressure when it comes to drug and alcohol use.
Add into the mix new research showing that many teens are consuming up to eight hours of entertainment media and technology daily - up to 53 hours a week. It is now prime time for parents to break through the media noise and make their voices heard.
Remember... Parents have tremendous influence on teens' decisions to not drink and use drugs. You can educate yourself about the dangers of teen substance abuse and communicate those risks to your teens through frequent conversations. As your teens prepare to go back to school, you can help them make the grade by letting them know you're there to help them handle new, challenging situations in a healthy way. |
| Take Time to Text |
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Talk to teens in their language.
Texting is an opportunity to talk to your teens on their terms. Surveys show that more than half of teens who text message think it has improved their relationship with their parents, and 51 percent of parents who text with their teens agree that they communicate more often. (Source: Kelton Research, 2008 survey for Samsung Mobile)
Why text?
For many teens, text messaging is a primary form of communication. It's a quick, easy and private way for them to make plans, gossip and stay in touch. While nothing takes the place of a face-to-face conversation, text messaging can help parents open new lines of communication, and it's a non-confrontational way to start conversations about sensitive topics like stress in school or concern about curfews. Texting is another way to show your support and stay connected to teens and tweens.
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Talking to teens-even in shorthand-is never easy, and it can be tough to find the right words. We've done some of the homework for you. Send one of the messages below to your teen on their first day of school, or create your own message. 