Governor’s Prevention Partnership Offers Tips On Keeping Kids Drug-Free

HARTFORD — It’s back-to-school time — a good time for parents to take a refresher course on keeping their children safe and drug-free.

“First and foremost, parents need to remember that they have an enormous influence on their children,” said Susan K. Patrick, president of the state Governor’s Prevention Partnership. “In fact, teens report that parents are the number one influence in their lives — so make your expectations about not using drugs and alcohol clear.”

She continued, “Keeping tabs on your teen’s life by asking questions about where they’re going, what they’re doing, and who they’re with is also an effective way to help your teen stay drug-free. We have found that kids who are not regularly monitored by their parents are four times more likely to use drugs.”

To help keep your youth safe from drugs and alcohol, the Governor’s Prevention Partnership offers some pointers to keep in mind as back-to-school season descends:

*Continue to keep family rules and structure in place and at the same time provide opportunities at mealtimes or other times for interaction.

*For parents of children transitioning into middle school or high school, these can be difficult times when your child may be more vulnerable to peer pressure. Remember to stay vigilant to your child’s behavior, monitor whereabouts and support your child by encouraging him or her to discuss feelings about the changes that are taking place.

*For parents of high school teens, request a copy of the school’s drug and alcohol policy. Many high schools require that youth participating in sports and extracurricular clubs remain substance-free or risk losing their ability to participate. Many schools additionally have a policy that athletes and student leaders cannot even be in the presence of alcohol at teen parties — or they risk being suspended from their sport team.

*Parents of college-bound youth should request a copy of the college or university alcohol/drug and disciplinary policy. Many colleges and universities utilize a “parent notification” process if a student is caught violating these rules. Gauge the school’s reputation — is there an emphasis on fraternities/sororities? Does the institution have a reputation as a “party school?”

*Keep in touch with your child during the first year of college. Youth who do not drink as freshmen are less likely to drink throughout college.

The Governor’s Prevention Partnership is a statewide, not-for-profit organization founded in 1989 dedicated to keeping Connecticut’s youth safe and drug-free. In his capacity as governor, Gov John G. Rowland serves as co-chair with John Klein, president and CEO of People’s Bank. Annually, the partnership provides services to more than 13,000 people in businesses, schools, colleges, community organizations, police departments, and municipal governments.

For more tips and materials, visit www.preventionworksct.org or call 800-422-5422.