NCJ Number
236422
Date Published
2011
Length
33 pages
Annotation
This guide for parents living in Montana's Flathead County provides practical advice on ways they can help their children at various ages to avoid the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD).
Abstract
The booklet first provides guidance to parents who have children and youth in elementary, middle, and/or high school. The format for advising parents consists of questions and answers. The questions pertain to why parents of elementary-school children should be addressing these issues with their children; when to begin talking with a child about the dangers of ATOD; and the importance of knowing your child's friends and where your children are after the school day ends; as well as whether it is appropriate to introduce middle and high-school youth to alcoholic beverages in the home. Information is provided on the nature of binge drinking, alcohol poisoning, and the vulnerability of the adolescent brain to adverse effects from ATOD, including addiction. Another section of the guide discusses why kids use ATOD and why they shouldn't. Remaining sections of the guide address the negative psychological effects of ATOD, what parents should do if a child is already involved with ATOD, the importance of communicating with one's children, other parents, and school officials in preventing the use of ATOD, and the management of parties for youth so that alcohol and other drugs are not consumed. Preparing college-bound youth and youth entering the workplace for the temptations to use AOTD are also discussed, along with the potential legal consequences for underage drinking and the consumption of illegal drugs. A listing of resources and a drug chart with pictures of some commonly used drugs are included.