Set Clear Rules About Alcohol

Be Specific. Tell your teen what the law is, what your household rules are, and behavior you expect. “Alcohol is for adults. Don’t drink alcohol until you’re 21. Our family follows the law.”

Be Consistent. Be sure your teen understands that the rules are maintained at all times, and that the rules hold true even at other people’s homes.

Be Reasonable. Don’t change the rules in mid-stream or add new consequences without talking with your teen. Avoid unrealistic threats.

Recognize Good Behavior. Always let your teen know how pleased you are when they respect the rules of the household.

Put it into Practice. Write out your most important family rules and post them clearly, where everyone in the family will see them often. Then review the rules regularly, such as at the beginning of each school year and before all events where alcohol might be involved.

Source: SAMHSA US Dept. of Health & Human Services, Start Talking Before They Start Drinking.

 

 

Helping Your Community With Safe Proms

The National Limousine Association provides these five tips when you hire a transportation service for your teenager’s big night:

1. Ask the transportation company for the Prom Promise. Many limousine and chauffeured transportation companies offer a contract that teens sign agreeing to not drink or take drugs on prom night. This gives parents an outlet to discuss the importance of safety on Prom with their teens.

2. Give the transportation company a curfew. That’s right; the chauffeur will abide by any rules you set forth, and will make sure to pick up and drop off your kids at a designated hour. This is a great way ensure your kids make it home on time, no excuses.

3. Make sure the company you choose is reputable. Reputable associations such as the National Limousine Association (NLA) and the local livery association are good indications that your service provider does their due diligence. If you are still stuck, consult www.nlaride.com.

4. Set ground rules. You can ask that the chauffeur keep the privacy screen down for the entire ride, so that he/she has a full grasp of what your kids are up to. If any of your rules are broken, the chauffeur can turn the car around and bring your kids home.

5. Sit back and relax. A reputable company hires drivers with proper training and licensing. Theses chauffeurs are used to carting around excited passengers all day long, so they know how to keep things under control.

 

Wendy Leonard is an award-winning medical writer with over 23 years experience translating complicated medical jargon for lay readers. Author of the cardio-protective cookbook, WomenHeart's All Heart Family Cookbook, Wendy is also currently earning her PhD in Public Health, specializing in community health promotion and education.

 

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Issue: April 2008