Pubdate: Mon, 31 Dec 2001 Source: Grand Island Independent (NE) Copyright: 2001 Grand Island Independent Contact: http://www.theindependent.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1023 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) GRANDPARENTS ALSO CAN TALK TO YOUTH ABOUT DRUG ABUSE Most of the 60 million grandparents in the United States do not realize the important role they play in influencing their grandchildren's lives -- especially when it comes to drugs. According to AARP, grandparents cite drugs, alcohol, and sex as the most difficult topics to discuss with their grandkids. Grandparents are looking for guidance on how to talk to their grandkids about difficult topics. In fact, according to a recent AARP survey, 54 percent of grandparents would find information about discussing drugs somewhat or very useful. Here are a few strategies for grandparents to keep their grandkids drug free: Start -- It is never too early to prevent your grandchildren from trying drugs. Simple gestures, such as letting your grandchild know you care, serve as protective factors and play an important role in deterring them from drugs. State your position clearly and often. One of the major reasons teens decide not to use drugs is the fear that their parents or other family members will lose respect for them. Teens do not want to let down their families. Connect -- Take the opportunity to build lines of communication and do things regularly with your grandkids. Spend time together -- eat dinner with them, read together, play a game, go shopping, go to the movies, attend a baseball game or go sightseeing together. Use opportunities like family gatherings or inviting your grandchildren to stay overnight to show that fun things don't require drugs. Listen -- Take a more active interest in what is going on in your grandchild's life. Listen to his or her cares and concerns by fostering family openness and communication. In this way, youngsters will feel more comfortable to open up to you when they need your advice. For free resources on the Internet, check out the Web site at www.theantidrug.com/grandparents for tips to help grandparents discuss substance abuse with their grandchildren. Or, visit the Central Nebraska Council on Alcoholism at 219 W. Second St., or call 385-5520. Prevention Works! is provided by the Central Nebraska Council on Alcoholism in Grand Island. CNCA is supported in part by Hall County, Heartland United Way, and federal and state funds through the Nebraska Department of Public Institutions-Division on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse and Region III Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration. - --- MAP posted-by: Josh