Counselor's Corner

(October 31)

We’ve had a good “Red Ribbon Week” this last week.  Ask your kids about it.  Have them wear their red ribbons with their Halloween costume tonight.  1^st – 5^th  worked on Activity Books that they should be bringing home today.  Ask them to see it.  Here is a quick list of ten steps to a drug-free future for your children.

1. NURTURE: Nurture your child’s pride in themselves and remind them of their worth.  Think of them as “winners”.  Remember young people see themselves the way others see them.

2. REINFORCE:  Reinforce what your child already knows-the dangerous and tragic consequences of alcohol and other drug use.  Talk to them now about resisting involvement with alcohol and other drugs.

3. PRAISE:  Praise the courage, strength and determination of your child not to use or be involved in drugs.  Remind them that contrary to the daily headlines and TV news reports, the majority of their friends and peers will not be using alcohol and other drugs.

4. TALK:  Talk to your child about the daily media images of drugs and violence in our communities.  Discuss how you both feel about negative TV and newspaper images of youth today.

5. ENCOURAGE:  Encourage you child to tell you about their hopes and dreams.  Listen to what they have to say.  You can help transform their dreams into reality.

6. GIVE:  Give your child your time and attention.  Assure them that they aren’t alone-you’ll be there for help, guidance and love.  Making a difference in even one child’s life can make the difference in all of our lives.

7. SET A GOOD EXAMPLE:  What we do influences what our children do.  Children will respond to our strength.  Neighbors, teachers and the extended family all must join together to set a positive example.

8. TELL ABOUT UNSUNG HEROES:  Tell your children about friends and neighbors –regular people, just like you-the unsung heroes who are out in the community, doing good things every day.  Volunteer your time and talents to helping youth in your community.

9. STRENGTHEN CONNECTIONS:  Strengthen your children’s sense of being a part of something great-your family and a member of the community at large.

  GET INVOLVED:    Get involved with school and after-school activities.  Volunteer at churches, recreation centers, athletic programs, law enforcement agency programs and parent groups.  All can use your talents.  Your community needs you.  Your children need you.

The bottom line is just like the ads you see on TV, you are best anti-drug solution for your children.  We have Red Ribbon Week for one week, once a year, but you are there everyday.  We encourage your involvement at Addams.  Please feel free to come by with any concerns or suggestions you might have.  Working together we can lead our children to the bright future they deserve.