“Prevention Begins at Home.”
It was the title of the first handout from Paul Carter, executive director for PRIDE, Inc.
“Parents are the single greatest influence on their children and play a major role in determining whether or not their kids will use alcohol, tobacco or other drugs,” the handout states. “The first step in helping young people is learning what to do.”
Carter spoke at the Gretna Public Schools Citizens Committee meeting last week. He talked about parents, but also gave an update on products available to buy that could be harmful to youths.
“There are a lot of people out there trying to make a lot of money,” Carter said.
He said parents just need to be honest with their children.
“This is the hardest talk parents will have with their youngsters,” he said. “But you have to have it.”
Set a good example, it states in one handout. If a parent drinks alcohol, let the children see that the parent limits the amount consumed, abstains at times and allows them to hear you say, “No thanks, I’m driving.”
Also, parents can show the children responsibility by having non-alcoholic drinks available to party guests and always serve food with drinks.
Demonstrate positive ways to handle stress, such as relaxing, exercising or having a hobby. Show children that parents can have a good time without drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
Carter said parents should monitor what their children are looking at on the Internet and get to know the parents of their friends. More information can be found online at www.prideprevention.org or by calling Carter at (402) 397-3309, ext. 7445.
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