U S Department of Juctice and U S Depa

Growing up Drug Free U S Department of Juctice and U S Depa

Parenting can be the most rewarding job on earth-and sometimes the toughest. You cradle your newborn the first time and promise, either silently or aloud, to provide the best life possible for him or her. The years quickly fly by-and suddenly, your youngster is about to enter school. If you're like most people, that is a scary day. How will little Sam react to being away from me? What will happen if Noah misbehaves? Will the teacher provide the attention that Riley needs in order to learn? As your child grows older and continues to achieve new milestones, your concerns grow, too. Can I trust Sara being home alone after school until I get home? What will Noah do if his friends offer him a cigarette? Will Riley's friends tempt her to try drugs? These types of worries are normal and show that you are a loving, attentive parent who wants what is best for your child. Reading this booklet also shows that you are concerned and that you want to help your child achieve a healthy, drug-free lifestyle from preschool through high school - a dozen or so critical years when attitudes about drug use are formed. Many school districts across the country have had to cut funding for alcohol and drug education programs, making it even more important that you are informed, consistent, and current when you communicate with your child about drugs and alcohol.