Peer pressure is an unfortunate daily reality for most children and teens. Your children are getting ready for the new school year where they will face continuous pressure from their classmates and friends. School year peer pressure is much different from summer pressure. As you help your children prepare for a new school environment, be aware of what they are facing.
Teens are naturally drawn to seeking acceptance and approval from their friends. We are all familiar with the temptation to try drugs and alcohol, among other risky behaviors. As a parent, you are obligated to build strong morals and values in your children so they can withstand peer pressure. Here are some tips for handling the difficult task of teaching your children to effectively handle peer pressure.
Tackling Peer Pressure
Self-Confidence
The greatest peer pressure foe is self-confidence. Building your teen’s self-confidence must be an ongoing process that starts at birth. Children with strong self-confidence are more likely to win the battles they face. This does not mean that you leave them to the wolves. You should be present and beside them through their challenges, but make sure that they are confidently taking the reins on their own life.
Get to Know Their Peers
Knowing and taking an interest in your child’s friend group can really help you understand your child’s life. If your child has a strong circle of good friends, half of your worries are over. Good company can set good impressions and help you advocate positive values.
Tell Them What’s Right and What’s Wrong
If you really want to make sure your children don’t end up under the influence of drugs and alcohol, it’s best to be open and make sure they are clear on the harmful effects of illicit substances. Open, often, and frank discussions with your children will reinforce your family’s strong values.
Teach Your Children to Say No
Peer pressure works when kids and teens mentally and emotionally pressuring your child to do something they shouldn’t. If you encourage your children to feel comfortable saying no, they can learn how to make their own decisions with confidence.
Compare Notes with Other Parents
You can learn a lot from your child’s friends’ parents. Talk to other parents to figure out how they handled everything. This will let you compare notes while understanding what your child is going through every day.
As experts in drug and alcohol testing in the Kansas City area, we are available to answer questions about the testing procedures and about new illegal drugs that teens are trying. Our testing facilities offer confidential and convenient testing solutions for parents that are concerned about their teens.
IF YOU ARE WORRIED THAT YOUR TEEN IS EXPERIMENTING WITH DRUGS, WE PROVIDE ACCURATE AND CONFIDENTIAL DRUG TESTING. CALL (816) 800-9699 OR CONTACT TEST SMARTLY LABSTODAY. YOU CAN MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT ANY OF OUR 4 KANSAS CITY AREA LOCATIONS.
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