Do You Speak Teen?
By: Julie Alonso

Text Message Translation: Many parents don't believe there is a generation disconnect between them and their teen.

It's time to bridge the gap and keep our kids drug-free.

When my first child was born, someone jokingly said, ‘there is no manual for raising a child.'  Overtime I have found that just when you think you've got it all figured out and are on your way to parent-of-the-year, your child enters a new "stage."  And of course, with every stage comes its own set of new and exciting challenges.  Our kids are constantly learning, changing, and growing.  They are subject to social influences, some beyond our control.  As our babies transition to tweens and then teens, how can we, as parents, ever expect to keep up - let along be an effective force at changing, eliminating, or more importantly, preventing unwanted behaviors?

I am here to tell you - YOU CAN make a difference!  In fact, the majority of teens still report that their parents-not their peers or the media-have the biggest influence on their decision to stay drug-free¹.  The Concho Valley CARES (Community Action & Resources for Empowerment & Success) coalition is here to provide you with the resources you need to address youth risky behaviors, especially preventing the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.  

For the first time in history, today's generation of youth have more knowledge in a specific area than adults.  You guessed it - technology!  Our kids are savvy and despite our best efforts, we (parents) don't always know how to communicate with them.  Is it that we are afraid?  Or just feel incompetent - like we speak another language?  Both may be true; however there is help and hope.  As you begin to prepare for the new school year - packing all the needed supplies for your child, also take time to prepare yourself for the new challenges that each new grade (or "stage") will bring: new friends and social influences, new teachers and extracurriculars, not to mention the mounting pressure to succeed.  You will be better able to connect and relate to your child by knowing more about their world and influences.    In fact, research indicates that parental involvement and monitoring will reduce their risk of using illicit drugs four-fold². 

Check out www.theantidrug.com to learn more about bridging the gap and equipping yourself.  For the most up-to-date abbreviations, acronyms, emoticons, etc; visit www.netlingo.com.  You can also visit http://www.noslang.com/. 

1. Office of National Drug Control Policy. http://www.theantidrug.com/ 
2. Community Builders for Success: monitoring after-school activities. Oregon research Institute. 1999. http://www.theantidrug.com/