Setting limits
with your child can play an important role in influencing their choices and
behavior with regard to alcohol and other drug use. The following provides
helpful tips when it comes to setting limits:
• Set clear
rules around drug use – ensure the message is consistent over time, and both
parents communicate the same message. Have your child participate in setting
limits and ask them to tell you in their own words what the limit means.
• Make sure
limits are appropriate. Some things to consider when setting limits include the
age of your child (older children may be involved in the limit setting
process), trust (if past behaviors have diminished trust there is often less
freedom), basic needs (we all have needs for privacy, and to socialize with friends).
• Make sure
limits are not too restrictive, as this may lead to arguments and anger.
• Limits must
be enforceable. Once a limit is set, it is important to follow through and
monitor that the limit is followed. A consequence should follow when limits are
broken. Limits and consequences must be enforced consistently in order to be
effective.
• Following
through with limits and consequences can teach your child to be responsible
when it comes to alcohol and other drug use, and promote healthy choices in the future.
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If you suspect
that your young person is using alcohol or drugs and would like further support
or information, please contact Tara Smoker AFM Counsellor at Carman Collegiate at
204-745-2810 (private line). I am available at the school on Tuesday and
Thursday of each week. All calls are confidential. Parents and youth can refer
for services.
Source:
Adapted from “A Job Description for Parents” David J. Wilmes, Johnson Institute
(1991).
