RCMP Marks Drug Awareness Week with Parents' 'Tip of the Day'

The RCMP Drugs and Organized Crime Awareness Service (DOCAS) has launched a series of tips for parents during national Drug Awareness Week, which runs Sunday, Nov. 15, through Saturday
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The tips are meant to support parents in developing protective factors for their children to help prevent drug use. “All drugs pose risks to the health of our youth, and they are particularly vulnerable because their brains are still developing,” according to the RCMP.

“There is plenty of research out there to suggest parents play an important role for the healthy development of a young person. A study conducted by the Search Institute suggests one of the significant assets for the development of a young person is having a positive and healthy relationship with his/her parents. Parents can provide protective factors in various practical forms such as having dinner with your child and engaging in positive communication,” says the RCMP.

DOCAS officers throughout the province will be offering their own personal tips, posted on the DOCAS website. To view the tips each day, click here.
 
The first tip, provided by Cpl. Shannon Haubrick, concerns communicating with kids. “Communication is your most powerful tool,” says Cpl. Haubrick. “Talk and listen to your kids about drugs and hear what they say."

“As a parent, it may be difficult at times to talk to your kids about drugs, but there are a few steps you can follow to make it easier. Be clear and concise, be inclusive, use the news, offer them control, offer constant praise and evaluate dialogue. Always try to keep the lines of communication open with your kids, as they look to their parents for guidance and boundaries.”

For more information, visit the DOCAS website at www.drugawareness.bc.rcmp.gc.ca or go to www.nationalantidrugstrategy.gc.ca/parents/action-agir/tips-conseils.html