How do you REALLY keep your kids safe?

How do you REALLY keep your kids safe from addiction?

From the moment our kids enter our lives, our instinct is to keep them safe.  We hold them close for their first shots, teach them to look both ways when crossing the road, and help them develop healthy habits.

So, shouldn’t we do the same when it comes to addiction?  Addiction is a disease.  Its essential we begin to protect them and strengthen them as kids.  Well in advance of there being the situation where it’s already offered to them.

Here are ten things parents can do:

1. Talk early and often:  Talk freely this is not a one time chat
2. Support healthy activities:  Key factors to kids not developing addiction are “healthy attachments” and “Prosocial engagements”
3. Set clear expectations of no use:  Remind them that you expect them not to use alcohol or drugs
4. Establish clear consequences:  Be clear, consistent, and specific about the immediate consequences
5. It’s NOT your job to be cool:  Its not our job to be their friend they need us most to guide and support them safely
6. Do not provide alcohol or drugs to your teens:  “Social Hosting” increases adolescent alcohol use
7. Pay attention:  Be transparent with your kids and have these conversations
8. Make time for your child:  Nurture your kids’ passions outside of the house but make time for family time too
9. Prioritize sleep:  Sleep is critical to mental and physical health
10. Intervene early:  If you suspect use don’t wait to help!  Sooner help arrives the better the outcome becomes.

Remember you play a crucial role in a child’s development.

This Awareness Campaign is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Anti-Drug Coalition.