January 2011
For the New Year, resolve to talk more often with your family about healthy decisions and choices. Research shows that kids who learn about the dangers of drugs from their parents are up to 50 percent less likely to use than those who do not get those important messages at home. The Partnership at Drugfree.org offers these:
10 Resolutions That Show Your Kids You Care
- Teach your children to trust you by seeing you as a role model.
- Be patient, not just tolerant. Apologize when you make a mistake or do something you regret.
- Ask teens what they need from you - and do whatever you can to meet those needs.
- Listen to your teens, a lot. Avoid interrupting.
- Teach your children about ethics, values and principles they can apply in choices and decision making.
- Help them discover the feeling of gratitude, not just to say thank you.
- Keep the promises you make. If you do not keep your word, acknowledge that. Help your teen understand the circumstances or choices that precipitated the change in your plans.
- Answer your teen's questions and be consistent. When you notice behavioral changes in them, make yourself available and encourage them to talk about what is going on in their life.
- Be understanding when they have a difficult time and let them know you will love them no matter what.
- Be diligent. Have ongoing conversations with your kids about the risks of drugs and alcohol.
Best Wishes for a safe, happy and healthy New Year
Community Coalition for Healthy Youth
For more information please visit www.healthyyouth.org
P.S. We’d appreciate your feedback…it only takes a minute (or less)! http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/jan_2011_NY_resolutions