It’s no secret that early adolescence is when children frequently begin experimenting with alcohol, making it the number one drug of choice among youngsters. With September being National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, counselors from Hawaii’s Department of Health
It’s no secret that early adolescence is when children frequently begin
experimenting with alcohol, making it the number one drug of choice among
youngsters. With September being National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery
Month, counselors from Hawaii’s Department of Health offer this timely advice
on how parents can help their children lead sober lives:
* Encourage your
child to talk about whatever interests him or her. Listening to them paves the
way for conversations about topics that concern you.
* Ask open-ended
questions that encourage children to tell how they feel.
* Control your
emotions. If you hear something you don’t like, take a deep breath, count to
10, whatever it takes to not answer angrily.
* Don’t lecture or try to
score points by showing how a teen is wrong. Demonstrate respect for your
child’s viewpoint, and they will be more likely to respect yours.
* Draw
the line. Set clear, realistic expectations, establish appropriate consequences
for breaking rules and enforce them consistently.
* Make sure that your
child has your acceptance. Avoid hurtful teasing or criticism.
* Understand
that your child is growing up. This doesn’t mean a hands-off attitude. Rather,
as you guide your child’s behavior, respect their need for independence and
privacy.
Hawai’i has drug treatment programs for teenagers who need the
help. On Kaua’i, Teen CARE programs are available at Waimea High School, Kapa’a
High School and Kapa’a Middle School. But with the right approach at home,
maybe youngsters won’t need them.
