Have You Done These With Your Teen Yet?
1.. Set Rules Have you set clear rules and let your teen know that marijuana use is unacceptable? Two-thirds of kids say that upsetting their parents or losing the respect of family and friends is one of the main reasons they don’t smoke marijuana or use other drugs. Set limits with clear consequences for breaking them. Praise and reward good behaviour.
2.. Understand and Communicate Have you talked to your teen in the past month about the harmful physical, mental and social effects of marijuana and other illicit drugs effects on young users? Young people who learn about the risks of drugs at home are up to 50 % less likely to try drugs than their peers who learn nothing from their parents. Look for teachable moments in everyday life to keep the conversation ongoing.
3. Monitor Your Teen’s Activities and Behaviours Have you checked to see where your teen is, who he is with, and what he is doing? Teens who are not regularly monitored by their parents are four times more likely to use drugs. Sometimes surprise your teen by checking up to make sure they are where they say they are.
4. Make Sure You Stay Involved in Your Teen’s Life Have you talked to your teen’s coach, employer and friends lately? Stay in touch with the adult supervisors of your child (camp counselors, coaches, employers) and have them inform you of any changes in your teen.
5. Engage Your Teen In Summer Activities Have you helped plan activities to keep your teen busy? Research shows that teens who are involved in constructive and adult-supervised activities are less likely to use drugs.
6.. Reserve Time For Family Have you planned a family activity with your teen in the corning weeks, such as going to movies together, taking a walk, or sharing a meal? Teens who spend time, talk and have a close relationship with their parents are much less likely to drink, take drugs or have sex.