What can parents do to stay connected and prevent
the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs?
Develop a warm and healthy relationship by spending time together. Parents can also offer positive role modeling by checking their behaviors to make sure they’re sending the right messages to their kids.
It’s never too early to start
Here are some tips to help you along the way!
- Catch your child doing something right. Reward their positive behavior with praise.
- Prove you listen by asking questions.
- Schedule time for you and your child like you would any other appointment.
- Post a family calendar. This will help you keep track of activities and find time to spend together and let your child know where you are.
- Create rules and enforce them. Set clear boundaries and be consistent and firm.
- Share regular meals with your child. Turn off the TV, put cell phones away and have a conversation.
- Share your day. Tell them about the good and the bad and they’ll be more likely to open up about their day.
- Write your child a thank-you note. Show your child that you appreciate them.
- Ask your child for advice. Ask them what to wear to a school event or what to fix for dinner that week.
- Give your child responsibilities. Assign age-appropriate chores for your child to help them feel important.
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