September 2024

Helping Your Children Stay Substance-Free

Homecoming is a time to celebrate our community and show our school spirit. This year, pledge to celebrate safely at the football game, at the dance, at home, and at social gatherings. Here’s how:  

Talk to your children about staying substance-free

One of the most influential factors during a child’s adolescence is maintaining a strong, open relationship with a parent or other caring adult. When parents create supportive and nurturing environments, children make better decisions. Though it may not always seem like it, children hear their parents’ concerns, which is why it’s important parents discuss the risks of using alcohol and other drugs.

Know the law 

It is a Class 1 misdemeanor for adults to provide alcoholic beverages to any person under the age of 21. Penalties upon conviction include a $2,500 fine per young person given alcohol or loss of the adult’s driver's license for up to one year and/or one year in jail.

Clearly communicate rules and expectations 

As a family, discuss a realistic curfew. What are some of the potential consequences of arriving home past curfew? How might these consequences change if communication takes place to explain a delay? 

Learn how to say no

In the days leading up to homecoming, talk to your child about how to say no if they are offered alcohol, and how to respond if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe. Some families establish a “code word” youth can text their parents for a no questions asked ride home.

Plan for safe driving

Even if your child has their driver’s license, consider driving them to and from the game, dance, and any party they attend. This is a great opportunity for you to have a conversation about where they are going, who they will be with, and how to stay safe. If your child is driving, talk about ways to arrive safely, such as limiting the number of passengers in the car and avoiding distractions. A car full of friends could be a dangerous distraction.

Follow up

After the weekend’s festivities, talk to your child about the game and the dance. Discuss what went well and how you can continue to support them to make healthy choices. Remind them of your family’s values about underage drinking and consequences for not following family rules. 

Is Your Teen Hosting or Attending a Party?

Your teen is likely looking forward to celebrating homecoming weekend with friends! Review these tips from Informed Families to help your teen have fun and stay safe:

Tips for when your teen is attending a party

Contact the adult who is hosting the party:

• Ask for the address, occasion, and time of the party.
• Let the host know that your teen is not allowed to drink alcohol or smoke.
• Ask if there will be parental supervision throughout the event.
• Offer your phone number to the party host.

Discuss these issues with your teen before the party:

• Discuss expectations and consequences.
• Agree on a curfew.
• Discuss how your teen will get to and from the party.
• Discuss what your teen should do if there is alcohol or other drugs present at the party.
• Offer to be your teen's ride home and agree on a "code word" should your teen want to discreetly let you know they want to be picked up.

Tips for when your teen is hosting

Plan with your teen:

• Know who your guests will be and avoid an "open party" situation.
• Agree on party rules beforehand. This should include making it clear that alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and other drugs are not allowed.
• Welcome calls from other parents to discuss party arrangements.

Know your responsibilities: It is illegal to serve alcohol to anyone under 21 years of age.

Penalties upon conviction include: 

• A $2,500 fine per young person provided any alcoholic beverage
• Loss of the adult’s driver’s license for up to one year and/or one year in jail

Explore more tips for celebrating safely this homecoming and year-round at PreventItAlexandria.org

Quick Links

Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria 

4850 Mark Center Drive

Alexandria, VA 22311