A Safe New Year's Eve
New Year’s Eve has
become a night to celebrate by getting dressed up and drinking with friends. The
holiday is made to look glamorous through advertisements and the media, which
makes the job of a parent that much harder. Parents should talk with their teen
before they begin planning their New Year’s Eve. Some important topics to
include are…
· The legal drinking age
is 21.
· True friends respect
your choices. Don’t let anyone pressure
you into drinking, using drugs, or doing anything else you don’t want.
· Don’t leave your beverage unattended. Bottles and cans are easier to keep secure than cups.
· Don’t post anything on
your social media site you will regret.
· Follow your gut. If you
feel uncomfortable in a situation, it may mean it’s wrong and you should
leave.
· It is okay to call home
if you need help. Having a safe word is
an easy way to express that you need help in an uncomfortable situation, no
questions asked.
It is also important to
be a part of the planning process with your teen.
· If there is a party at
someone’s house, ask for the address and phone number of the host parents. Contact them to make sure there will be no
alcohol and that responsible adults will be
present.
· Make sure your teen has
a safe way to get home. Explain the importance of designated drivers. Offer to
be the driver.
Raising a teenager is
no easy task, but these tips are meant to help you keep the gray hairs at bay so
the New Year starts off right. With all the chaos the holiday season may bring,
it is important to remember to talk to your teenagers. There may be school
dances, community events and parties for them to attend, but as the parent, make
sure talking to your teen about their holiday plans is at the top of your to-do
list.
Monthly
Messages are brought to you by:
The
Community Coalition for Healthy Youth
Each
monthly message is provided by coalition board members. If you have further
questions or comments about this message or would like information on how to
become involved with the Community Coalition for Healthy Youth, please email ahendrix@tompkins-co.org
Thank
you in advance for sharing this monthly message with your
networks.
Community
Coalition for Healthy Youth
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