Parents, You are Your Child's #1 Influence

Keeping Teens Drug & Alcohol Free in Bannockburn, Deerfield, Highland Park, Highwood & Riverwoods

June/July 2025

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In this Issue: Parents are the #1 Influence | 60 Second Conversation Starter | Volunteer Spotlight

For Elementary School, Middle School & High School Families

Parents, YOU are the #1 Influence

So, Keep on Talking!

The long days of summer offer a wonderful break but can be a time of temptation for kids who have more time to socialize with friends, and more opportunities to engage in risky activities.

It’s well proven that parents are the #1 influence on their children’s decision whether or not to drink alcohol or experiment with drugs. Even if your child seems to be tuning you out, they DO respect what you have to say. So, keep on talking!

Here are some reminders as the summer kicks off:

Set rules/expectations early, and be consistent and firm with regard to curfews, local laws for young drivers, and saying no to alcohol and drugs. If your child knows what is expected of them, they are likely to follow your rules.
Check in with your child often and listen to what they have to say. They want to feel heard.
Stay involved and show your child how much you care for their health and safety. They will be more willing to talk and confide in you if they feel seen, safe and comfortable.
Monitor your child’s activities and remain attentive to any behavior changes.
Encourage your child to make a list of summer activities, hobbies and/or goals. Staying busy will help keep them engaged and out of trouble.
Reserve time for family. Make some time each day to take a family bike ride, help a neighbor, or try something new. Let your child come up with some ideas and be open to taking their lead.

These screen-free activities will add some fun and learning to your family's summer.

Get ideas from local teens and parents on fun outings that help your kids feel safer--and be safer--in this teen-approved party tool kit. It's a one-stop resource that includes teen-approved activities, suggestions for party hosts, and information on local laws.

Conversation starters in our Family Resource Guide (English) and en español can help parents navigate many topics.

For Elementary School, Middle School & High School Families

When You Talk, They Hear You!

60 Second Conversation Starter

Kids want their parents' guidance and honest answers to their questions about alcohol and other drugs. Keep your message to your child consistent and part of everyday conversations.

Here are 5 conversation goals that can help in having those 60 second conversations with your child.

It's not one 60-minute conversation.

It's 60 one-minute conversations.

For All Community Members

Volunteer Spotlight: Officer Al Maciareillo

Al Maciareillo has dedicated 30 years to law enforcement, including 28 years as a police officer, and is the longest serving Riverwoods employee! His interest in law enforcement stemmed from a desire to serve the community and make a positive difference in the lives of its residents.

Al became involved with Community—The Anti-Drug Coalition when Bruce Dayno, the Riverwoods Police Chief, stepped down from the board about 4 years ago. He selected Al to fulfill the remainder of his term, which was to the Coalition's huge benefit. It's clear through all of his behind the scenes work that Al deeply believes in the Coalition’s mission and the positive impact it has on our youth.

Al's advice to parents on engaging with their kids this summer:

“Because kids have a lot more unstructured and unsupervised time over the summer, I would suggest that parents make a conscious effort to stay involved in their children's lives. This includes proactively asking them questions and engaging in open conversations about the dangers of alcohol and drugs. It's important for young people to understand that it is absolutely possible to have fun and socialize without the influence of such substances.”

We celebrate all of our extraordinary volunteers!

Read all about them in our volunteer spotlights.

Donate

Be a part of our amazing team. Will you consider contributing your time, creativity, unique skills, or a donation? Learn how to make a difference by joining one of our committees!

Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Support is Always Available: Students who are struggling or worried about a friend are encouraged to talk to a counselor, parent, or other trusted adult. When they aren't available, or it just doesn't feel right for the situation:

· Check this list of free, 24/7 confidential support lines

· Support options via text, phone, online chat or email

· Bookmark the page so it's there when you need it

Community - The Anti-Drug is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization (EIN 451631475). Our coalition of volunteers and community organizations strive to reduce alcohol, marijuana and other drug use among youth in Bannockburn, Deerfield, Highland Park, Highwood and Riverwoods, Illinois. Funding is generously provided by the Healthcare Foundation of Highland Park, other foundations/organizations, individual donors and a Drug Free Communities grant from the U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The views, opinions and content of this publication are those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect our funders' views, opinions or policies.

Parents/guardians of youth in High School District 113: You opted in to receive these monthly newsletters during school registration and may unsubscribe any time.