Smoke signals., December 01, 1991, FAMILY FORUM, Page Page 9, Image 9

December, 1991
Smoke Signals
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X Parent Pledge J X-
Because we know that children and teens learn from the
behavior their parents model, and because I know that
alcohol is both a "gateway" to other drugs as well as the
drug of choice among teenagers, I pledge to follow the
guidelines below regarding alcohol.
1. I limit the number of times I consume alcohol during
a week, realizing that daily consumption can lead to
dependency.
2. I avoid alcohol at lunch.
3. I do not automaticaly offer alcoholic beverages to
visitorsguests in my home.
4. I plan some social events where alcohol is not
served.
5. When planning an adult party where alcohol is
available, I serve food with it and guard against excessive
drinking by limiting it availability.
6. I am aware that I should not drive after drinking. I
follow these same guidelines for my guests since I am
responsible for their actions after they leave.
7. I realize that serving or buying alcohol for persons
8. I discuss the dangers of alcohol consumption with
my children and their friends.
, 9. I never ask my children to make a drink for me or
get mc a drink from the refrigerator.
10. I keep liquor out of reach of young children.
11. I limit the availability of alcohol in my home to
discourage children and teenagers from experimenting
with it. I keep liquor out of their reach, if possible
keeping it locked up.
12. I am aware of the risks of leaving my teenager alone
all night in my home and, therefore, make arrangements
for a responsible adult to check on them.
13. I make good efforts to check on the parties my
teenager attends to make sure alcohol will not be
available. If my teenager has a party, I am present and
do not allow alcohol to be served. I also look in on the
party throughout the evening.
14. When I am with my children, I will avoid drinking
alcohol (sporting events, dining out, etc.)
Courtesy of Overtake Hospital Medical Center; Bellevue, Wash.
Seven Keys to Healthy Family
1. Family Fun: Healthy families enjoy spending time
together. They plan family activities with each other.
2. Family Decisions: Discipline is neither too stern nor
too relaxed. It is consistent, fair and open to negotia
tions. Explanations of family rules and discipline are
clearly communicated. Healthy families are neither too
rigid nor too flexible.
3. Family Pride: Healthy families are committed to the
family's welfare. They think highly of their family and
are proud to be a part of it.
4. Family Values: Healthy families have a strong, clear
moral base. They have shared goals and ideals about
what is important.
5. Family Caring: Healthy families express positive
feelings and appreciation for each other's efforts and
accomplishments. Family members affirm, trust, and
support one another.
6. Family Communication: Communication is open and
clear in healthy families. It is direct but not deliberately
unkind. Family members speak for themselves and'dont
blame others.
7. Family Confidence: Healthy families believe in their
ability to solve problems. They believe in the future and
in their capacity to be successful as a family.
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under 21 is against the law.
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