SavvyParentSeriesJanuary

Prevention * Education * Awareness

Community Drug and Alcohol Council, Inc.

Savvy Parents Spend Time With their Family

Savvy Parents know their kids. Get into the habit of talking to your child everyday. Find out what is going on in their lives. Most importantly - Listen to them. Children who have parents who spend time with them have a lower chance of becoming involved with alcohol, other drugs and violence.

When you build a good relationship with your child at a young age, it will be easier for them to come to you when they have problems as an adolescent.

Parents are the most powerful influence in children’s daily life.

Benefits of Family Bonding:

· Your child is less likely to become involved with drugs and alcohol

· Your child will feel valued

· Your child will do better in school

· Your child is less likely to develop mental health problems

· You will notice warning signs if your child is having a problem

· Your children will listen to you more

Teens who don’t eat dinner with their families are 72 percent more likely to use illegal drugs, cigarettes and alcohol.

What the Savvy Parent can do:

· Let your child help you cook a meal

· Play outside - hopscotch, tag, hide n seek, fly a kite, picnic, garden