Things you can do to set your expectations and build connections with your child.

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Resources to Help You Help Your Loved One

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Summer is a great time to focus on your loved one’s well-being by practicing positive parenting techniques that support a healthy lifestyle.

Protective Parenting Tips

Communicate your expectations:

Setting clear expectations of your child’s behavior, family rules and a shared understanding of consequences for violating those expectations and rules provides them with a sense of stability, consistency and security. This applies both in and outside of the home.

If it is clear that your expectations are based in love and concern rather than just “because I said so,” your child will understand that you care about their health and safety. This will help them try to meet your expectations and respect your rules.

Monitor your child’s behaviors:

Research consistently shows that knowing where your children are, what they are doing and who they are with can reduce the chance that they will use substances.

Work with your child to set a daily routine; with school being out for the summer this is even more important.

- Having a structured calendar will strengthen their time management skills, help them avoid boredom and isolation and give you an understanding of what they are doing each day.
- Ensure you have plenty of quality time together. This provides an opportunity to ask questions, listen to what your children have to say and strengthen your connection.

Keep an eye on your child’s (and your own) screen time and social media use. Too much screen and social media time is connected to poor mental and physical health ([link removed] ) , weaker family bonds, and fewer ties to school and community.

It’s not unusual for your child to resist these expectations at times. Monitoring, done from a place of love and care, can help you recognize and address potential threats to their safety and well-being.

Encourage healthy risk-taking:

It’s normal and natural for children to take risks. If you can help your children do so in safe and healthy ways ([link removed] ) , they will be less likely to engage in and develop dangerous habits.

Help your children face challenges and go beyond their comfort zone. They’ll learn how to adapt to new and complex situations, manage setbacks and develop new coping skills.

Stay up to date on substance-specific information

Want to learn about substances that your child may be exposed to? Our comprehensive drug guide has all you need to know about vaping, marijuana, fentanyl and other substances:

Drug Guide
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