Important Information
Parents are #1
Upsetting or disappointing my parents" is the #1 reason kids give for why they won't use drugs. So start talking and keep the lines of communication open on this important issue.
Parents and other concerned adults make the difference
In a survey conducted by the Coalition for a Drug-Free Greater Cincinnati, 47,000 Tri-State students said that parents are critically important in drug prevention:
- There is a 25% reduction in the use of all drugs among students whose parents talk to them about drugs
- There is a 46% reduction in use among students whose parents set clear and consistent rules
- The older the students get, the less frequent the talks are occurring and the less often clear rules are set. These decreases in parental involvement are directly reflected in increased use among older youth.
Follow steps 1, 2 and 3...
- Talk with children regularly. Look for teachable moments.
- Set clear family rules.
- Follow through when the rules are broken.
Parents Who Host Lose The Most
What parents should know:
- As a parent, you cannot give alcohol to your teen's friends under the age of 21 under any circumstance, even in your own home, even with their parent's permission.
- You cannot knowingly allow a person under 21, other than your own child, to remain in your home or on your property while consuming or possessing alcohol.
If you break the law:
- You can face a maximum sentence of six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
- Others can sue you if you give alcohol to anyone under 21 and they, in turn, hurt someone, hurt themselves, or damage property.
- Officers can take any alcohol, money or property used in committing the offense.
Things you can do as a parent:
- Refuse to supply alcohol to children other than your own in your home or on your property.
- Be at home when your teen has a party.
- Make sure that alcohol is not brought into your home or property by your teen's friend.
- Talk to other parents about not providing alcohol at other events your child will be attending.
- Create alcohol-free opportunities and activities in your home so teens will feel welcome.
- Report underage drinking by calling the anonymous, toll-free Hotline at 1-877-4-MINORS.