By Lauren Felechner
With the very unfortunate and recent passing of Oscar-winning actor Philip Seymour Hoffman, his death has bombarded headlines and brought media attention to drug use, addiction and what is to be a lifelong battle for those consumed by drugs and alcohol. Unfortunately Hoffman is not the first celebrity to succumb to his addictions, so how does one deter their kids from dabbling in experimenting?
According to wellnesseveryday.org, the following points can help parents and their kids steer away from using drugs and alcohol:
- Talking with your children about drugs is such an important first step. Explain how taking drugs can hurt their health, friends, family and their future. Vocalize your wish for them to not do drugs.
- Be a part of their lives and spend time together. Even when times are tough, kids can make it when they know that the adults in their life care about them.
- Know where your children are, whom they are with and what they are doing. Keeping track of your kids helps you protect them and gives them less opportunity to get into trouble.
- Set clear rules and enforce them fairly. Kids need rules they can count on to be able to set their own standards.
- Lead by example. Show them how you get along with people and deal with stress, so they can also learn how to do it in a proper and healthy manner.
- Teach your children how to refuse drugs. Kids often do drugs because of peer pressure. Help them practice how to say no if someone offers them drugs.
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