Peer Pressure: What can Parents do to Help? Part 2

So what can we as parents do to help our children better able to deal with peer pressure and make smart choices? 

One suggestion is to make certain types of positive groups accessible to your teen. Some examples are sports, extracurricular clubs and religious youth groups. Many teens report getting involved with drugs/alcohol because they are “bored” and have nothing to do. 

Parents should also get to know the parents of your teen’s friends and, if possible, be each others’ support and attempt to have the same ground rules. I know this is not always possible but the more contact you have with the other parents the less likely all of your children will get into trouble. Be aware when your daughter tells you she is sleeping at Janie's house..  Janie might be telling her parents she is sleeping at your house! Do not be naive about the lengths our children will go to get a little "freedom"  which can get them into a lot of trouble. 

Important Notice: The information presented above is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for consulting a psychologist or other mental health professional to discuss your unique situation. If you would like to talk with me about it, you may call my office at 914-329-5355.