The summer provides parents with wonderful chances to spend quality time with children-having barbecues, going to the pool, taking trips to the amusement park. Why not take advantage of this time together to begin or continue a dialogue about preventing drug use?
Studies show that kids who learn about the risks of drugs from parents or other caregivers are less likely to smoke marijuana than those who don't. Surveys also show that most teens that have rejected marijuana credit their parents for their decision over any other influence.
We've compiled a list of some great activities that parents and kids can do together this summer to encourage communication:
Volunteer as a family . Volunteerism is a great way to show children that giving is just as important as receiving. Visit www.volunteermatch.org to find a cause in which you'd like to involve your family.
Build a scrapbook or online photo album of summer memories . Pictures capture memories for all of us and many people are now using digital cameras. As fun and easy as they are to use, what is a family to do with a stockpile of digital images? Why not build an online photo album with your kids? You'll help them learn more about technology while taking a trip down memory lane. If you're using a standard camera, visit http://familycrafts.about.com for some great ideas for creating fun, unique scrapbooks.
Organize a neighborhood softball tournament . Does it seem like most summers your kids hang around inside the house complaining that they're bored? Encourage them to go outside by setting up a softball tournament with your neighbors, family, and kid's friends. Even if you're not the best player, it's still a fun activity and a great way to get some exercise. |
