Parenting My Teen

Most parents can remember the underage drinking that took place when they were in high school. While teenage drinking wasn’t as bad as it is today, it was still a concern for parents back then. Today, however, not only do parents of high school teens have to worry about alcohol, they also have to worry about drug abuse as well. In fact, the use of alcohol and drugs is one of the biggest problems high school teens face today. The good news is that there are several things that parents can do to help their teens avoid the problems caused by using drugs and alcohol in high school.

Setting rules is one of the best things parents can do for their teen during his high school years. Rules are designed to give teens a clear set of expectations – and when teens know their parents expectations, they are more likely going to try to measure up to them. The flip side to setting rules is that parents need to establish punishments for when the rules are broken – and enforce them! While it may seem small, setting rules can play a huge role in whether or not your teen experiments with drugs and alcohol during high school.

Parents can also help monitor their teen by getting to know his friends. By getting to know the friends, parents are able to get a better understanding of how their teen acts when away from home. For example, is your teen hanging out with people that are into going to parties or are they teens that are focused on their schoolwork? Basically, if you want to learn more about your teen, study his friends.

Another way parents can help their teen steer clear of the high school drug and alcohol scene is by spending time with him and keeping the lines of communication open. Studies have shown that teens that have a good relationship are less likely to try drugs and alcohol compared to those that don’t. Therefore, make time to do something fun with your teen each week and always take an interest in their day and talk to them!

While high school is the time when teens get more freedom, parents should still keep close tabs on them. It is important that you know where your teen is outside of school – especially at night and on the weekends. Make it a point to ask who he will be with and where he is going – and, don’t be afraid to check up on him from time to time. It may seem like spying, but how will you ever find out if your teen is telling you the truth if you don’t ever validate his story?

If you follow the four tips above, you will be taking a huge step towards preventing your teen from experimenting with drugs and alcohol during high school. However, parents also need to be aware of the warning signs that indicate drug and alcohol use. If you notice several of the symptoms below present in your teen, do not hesitate to take action. Many drug and alcohol addictions started in high school.

-       An increased need for privacy

-       A drop in class grades

-       A new group of friends

-       Evidence such as bloodshot eyes, alcohol on the breath, drug paraphernalia, unfamiliar medications, etc.

-       A sudden interest in mouthwashes and colognes/perfumes

-       Missing medications

-       Frequently asking for money

If you’re teen is out of control and you’d like more help and information, click here and you will be directed to an online parent-program for those who are struggling with their out-of-control teenagers. Learn cut-to-the-chase parenting strategies that work immediately rather than months or years down the road.