Not sure where you stand on teen drinking? How about occasional marijuana use? What is the big deal? Isn’t it just a matter of kids learning how to use these substances in moderation? Won’t they need to learn before they leave the safety of home?
Many families struggle with these questions as their children reach the teen years. Both parents and young people want to make the best decisions for themselves, their bodies and minds, their intellectual and social development, and their futures. Whether or when to use alcohol, marijuana and cigarettes are often some of the most “hot button” issues that parents and their older children face.
The “Healthy Brain Campaign for Parents and Teens” on Tuesday, May 31, 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. at the Madison Area YMCA, One Ralph Stoddard Drive, Madison, will look at some of the issues involved in promoting “healthy brains” so that young people reach their full potential. Parents and teens (at least 12 years of age) are invited to attend. The presentations will cover the latest information on healthy adolescent brain growth and development, including brain scans showing young brains both with and without substances present.
Find out what's happening in Madisonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Dr. Vanessa Alleyne, Associate Professor and former Coordinator of the Addiction Studies Program at Montclair State University and Nelson Hadler, MSW, Executive Director of Treatment Dynamics in Florham Park, and a well known professional who works with young people experiencing the negative effects of substance use, will share their expertise with the audience. Their presentations will include videos, lecture, handouts and plenty of time for questions.
