Most teens say that losing their parents’ approval is their number one reason to not use drugs.

Parents: You have more influence over your kids than you might think. What you say and do is observed and internalized by your children, including your approval or disapproval of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs.

What can you do?
1. Be absolutely clear with your kids that you don’t want them using drugs or drinking alcohol.
2. Be a good listener and give honest answers to their questions.
3. Use TV reports, anti-drug commercials, or school discussions about drugs to help you introduce the subject in a natural, unforced way.
4. Don’t react in a way that will cut off further discussion.

These talking tips were adapted from www.theantidrug.com. For more talking tips, click here.

OCFC works hard to provide resources for parents and to help develop strong, healthy kids that grow into being productive adults. Please contact us through this form if you would like to take advantage of free educational materials that are available at our office.  Or, you can visit our resource center at the Oregon Branch Library, located at 3340 Dustin Road.  Just look for the bookshelf titled “Reaching Out,” near the periodicals.

Developmental Assets
OCFC uses the 40 Developmental Assets as a guideline for developing projects, as well as strengthening families. Developed by Search Institute, the presence or absence of these assets in kids affects their likelihood of engaging in destructive behaviors.