Important Links for All Parents:
PARENTS: The Anti-Drug
Parenting Teens Online
Straight Dope for Parents
Time to Talk: Parent Talk Kit
Too Smart to Start: Parents
Links to Great Websites with Information on Other Topics Relevant to Parents of Teenagers:
CASA Family Day (Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse)
Family First
Five Moms: Stop Cough Medicine Abuse
Guide for Parents to help Children Learn about Online Saftey
The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy
Men Ending Violence
Not My Kid
Over-the-Counter Drug Safety
Words Can Work
National and State Organizations:
The Century Council
Monitoring the Future: Data about current trends
The Power of Parents: MADD’s Parent Resource
Start Talking Before They Start Drinking: Washington Coalition
Organizations in Roanoke and Surrounding Areas:
CHIP of Roanoke Valley (Children Health Investment Partnership)
United Way of Roanoke Valley
If you need more information about Treatment:
Center on Addiction and the Family/Children of Alcoholics Foundation
Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator
Be the Excuse Your Child Needs
In a recent study, teens gave parents a “C-” in preventing kids from using drugs. These kids often say their parents don’t talk to them about drugs even though their parents report they do. Don’t leave your kids guessing. Tell them very clearly that you don’t want them using substances – no tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, ecstasy or inhalants. Setting a firm rule of no drug use will help your child navigate peer and other pressure to use drugs. Here are some examples of rules that parenting experts recommend (taken from “Keeping Your Kids Drug Free: A How To Guide for Parents and Caregivers”):
“If you’re at a party and you see that drugs or alcohol are being used, the rule is to leave that party. Call me and I’ll come get you.”
“I’ve been thinking lately that I’ve never actually told you this: I don’t want you using alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs.”
“I love you and I want the best for you, so I don’t want you using marijuana or any other drugs.”
“The rule in the house is that no body uses drugs.”
“You know, drugs are not games. I don’t want you doing them, not now, not ever.”