No matter how open parents are today, sex and substance abuse remain uncomfortable topics, especially if the child is a growing adolescent. As a rule, children will always primarily ask their parents about such topics. And that’s a good thing because parents should always be aware of their children’s explorations into the grownup world.
In many cases, their lives outside the home could influence them more, but it is still the home that influences their life choices. If they see adults using illegal substances at home, there’s a high chance that the child will also pick up the habit. Research has shown that children who grow up in an environment with excessive alcohol and illegal drug use have a higher risk of growing up with a possible substance abuse problem or even developmental issues.
A negative home life could lead to even more serious issues. Young people’s judgment can be clouded. The negative environment could lead young people to quit school, leave their homes, and even commit crimes. Parents and guardians should know when to confront their children and ask their teachers and friends to help them find a juvenile drug rehabilitation center in Utah that could save them.
Here are the thing that parents should do when they feel that their teens or growing children are becoming curious about the facts of life, whether it’s reproduction, love, or bad choices.
Grab The Chance
A child in this generation will have access to everything, thanks to the internet. Even with parental supervision and smart blocking of adult websites, they can see it in the media or through their friends. Start their education when they begin asking about relationships, sexuality, and even drinking and smoking.
In some cases, it is the parent who must grab the chance to discuss questions about substance abuse and the stigma it has on the affected person. For many young people and their parents, a stint in a juvenile rehab center might be the only answer if their child’s curiosity becomes more than that.
Keep it Simple
Be straightforward with your explanations. Medical terms are usually the best choice, to show them that discussing a difficult topic is normal and part of growing up. Also, don’t react negatively to their questions especially. They’re asking so you can clarify information and not receive an angry lecture.
Use Present Situations
You can use recent events as part of your explanations to make it easier for the child to understand. Sometimes, ordinary events in their life could be the best examples when discussing such topics. You can also let them ask questions about these particular situations to get the ball rolling.
Remember, teach your kids to consider the choices presented to them. If they find themselves in an awkward or questionable situation, it’s always all right to say no. Also, assure them that it’s perfectly fine to tell you of such instances. Finally, if there are questions you can’t answer or too embarrassed to discuss with your kid, there’s their teachers, doctors, and mentors whose expert advice is always the best.
