Piecing together a safer and healthier community
Parents Have a Significant Influence in Their Children’s Decisions to Experiment With Alcohol and Other Drugs
One of the most influential factors during a child’s adolescence is maintaining a strong, open relationship with a parent. When parents create supportive and nurturing environments, children make better decisions. Though it may not always seem like it, children really hear their parents’ concerns, which is why it’s important that parents discuss the risks of using alcohol and other drugs.
show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse
Over 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink or not . Send a clear and strong message that you disapprove of underage drinking.
Small conversations can have a big impact
When it comes to discussing the risks of underage drinking with your teen, there is no magic formula, but there is a major rule of thumb: have frequent small talks.
This is one of the keys to keeping your child alcohol-free. It’s not about sitting down for one “big talk.”
Not only can this feel intimidating for you and your child, but it is often less impactful. Short conversations over time prove to be more effective.
FOR YOUR KIDS SAKE...
pledge to lock up your meds
Ease of access is the #1 reason youth misuse prescription drugs—75 percent of opioid misuse starts with using medication that wasn’t prescribed for them-usually taken from a friend or family member. A national study indicated that 29 percent of parents with children 18 years-of-age and younger report storing medications safely in the home-in a latched or locked location. We can do better. Together, we can achieve 100%. For your kids’ sake, pledge to lock your meds. It’s easy and important.
Amazing things with the community...
and for the community
Working to improve the quality of life in Kankakee and Iroquois counties by trying to find solutions to the causes of school failure, substance misuse, juvenile delinquency and other life-compromising behaviors.