By: Staff Report
news@wbcowqel.com
Governor John Kasich is asking parents to talk with their children about the dangers of substance abuse as part of a new anti-drug initiative. But making sure Ohio kids get the message is easier said than done. Marcie Seidel, who heads the Drug-Free Action Alliance, says parents may not realize they are some of the most powerful prevention tools. Simply talking to a child one-to-one, and on a consistent basis, can make a huge difference.
“Parents who set their expectations around substance abuse and drinking alcohol, and set the boundaries, those children are much more likely to succeed – and most young people want to please their parents. So, parents are powerful people and they can make a difference,” Seidel said.
Seidel says it’s never too early to start the conversation, and she urges parents to listen and not criticize. She suggests doing some research about substance abuse first, and sharing the information with the child, to ensure they’re getting it from mom or dad instead of their peers.
Seidel admits it can be difficult to open the lines of communication between parent and child, and she recommends looking for “teachable” moments in everyday life.