N-B Feedback: Educating kids aboug drugs

Due to a donation of a van by the Frito-Lay distribution center, Ossian officer Stephanie Tucker no longer must spend the $11,000 she raised to purchase a vehicle for D.A.R.E. mobile lab on the actual vehicle.

Instead, she can use the money to equip the van with educational resources, but what do you think she should include? Let us know in the comments or comment directly at the article by clicking here.

Learn more in the Tuesday, Oct. 15, News-Banner.

D.A.R.E. also lists the following warning signs that might indicate a substance abuse problem. Click here a list of other useful links.

1. Be your kids’ greatest fan. Compliment them on all of their efforts, the strength of their character and their individuality.
2. Get your kids involved in adult-supervised after-school activities. Ask them what types of activities they’re interested in and contact the school principal or guidance counselor to find out what activities are available. Sometimes it takes a bit of experimenting to find out what your kids are best suited for, but it’s worth the effort-feeling competent makes kids much less likely to use drugs.
3. Help your kids develop tools they can use to get out of alcohol or drug related situations.
4. Get to know your children’s friends and their parents. Call them and check to make sure they share in your views on alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
5. Call kids’ parents if their home is to be used for a party. Make sure that the party will be alcohol-free and supervised by adults.
6. Set curfews and enforce them. Let kids know the consequences of breaking curfew.
7. Encourage open dialogue with your children about their experiences. Make sure your children understand that they can ask you anything and that you will give them an honest answer.
8. Set a no-use rule for alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
9. Sit down for dinner with your children at least once a week. Use the time to talk-don’t eat in front of the TV.
10. Get-and stay-involved in your children’s lives.