Parents Know! The Key to a Safe and Drug-Free Summer Break

Summer Break is highly anticipated for most children, as they look forward to some time off school. For many parents this means kids at home alone or kids hanging out with their friends. Research shows that unsupervised teens are three times more likely to engage in risky behaviors like smoking, drinking and using other drugs.

(TheAntiDrug.Com: Monitoring Skills)

Let’s talk about some other “firsts” (SAMHSA)

• Everyday, 8,000 kids take their first drink of alcohol.

• Everyday, 8,000 kids use an illicit drug for the first time.

• Everyday, 6,000 kids smoke marijuana for the first time.

• Everyday, 2,000 kids try their first prescription painkiller (for non-medical purposes).

To avoid these “firsts” for your child this spring break:

• Safeguard all over-the-counter and prescription medications.

• Lock the liquor cabinet and make any other alcohol inaccessible.

• Make clear your expectations regarding smoking, drinking and using other drugs.

• Set rules as to which friends (if any) are allowed over while you’re gone.

• Know where your child is and who he/she is with at all times.

• Check in with your child throughout the day with a quick call or text.

Know! is a program of Drug-Free Action Alliance with funding provided by the United Way of Central Ohio to empower parents to raise their children substance-free. Presented by Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems and funded by the Delaware County Office of Behavioral Health Division of Drug and Alcohol.