Welcome to our Positive Parenting Prevents Drug Abuse Series! Each day we will add a new topic–Topics include Communication, Encouragement, Negotiation, Setting Limits, Supervision, and Knowing Your Child’s Friends. We will also provide videos fro each topic.   Click on each image for a larger view.

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Tips

• Be present and tuned in.
• Show understanding.
• Listen with respect.
• Remain engaged.
• Avoid negative emotions.
• Give encouragement.

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Practices That Are Discouraging

• Being sarcastic or negative about a child’s ability to be successful.
• Comparing a child to siblings and friends.
• Taking over when a child’s progress is slow.
• Reminding a child of past failures.

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Problem-Solving Traps

• Don’t try to solve hot issues.
• Don’t blame the other person or put the other person down.
• Don’t make assumptions about another person’s intentions.
• Don’t defend yourself—try to let it go.
• Don’t bring up the past—avoid using words such as “always” and “never.”
• Don’t lecture—a simple statement will get your point across better.

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Tips

• State the limit and the consequence clearly.
• Catch the problem early.
• Follow through each time a limit is stretched or a rule is broken.
• Remember to use a firm and calm tone of voice.
• Avoid arguments and threats.
• Offer encouragement each time a rule is followed.

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Extra Tips

• Stay involved.
• Spend time listening to your child.
• Know who your child’s friends are and watch your child interact with them and others.
• Talk to the parent(s) of your child’s friends.

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Extra Tips

• Keep lines of communication open.
• Be patient and observe; don’t react—it may pass.

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