YOUR TEEN’S LATEST HIGH MIGHT HIT CLOSER TO HOME THAN YOU THINK

COUGH AND COLD MEDICINES FROM THE CABINENT – A CONVENIENT NEW HIGH FOR YOUR TEEN

Many parents have no idea that teens are abusing these products. But 1 in 25 eighth graders abused over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold remedies in the past year. (1)
Like prescription drugs, OTC’ s are often found at home. In many areas, teens can buy them at stores, quite easily.

But that doesn’t mean they’re safe to use without proper supervision. Teens underestimate the dangers of abusing OTC drugs. Many contain Dextromethorphan (DXM), a cough suppressant, which can cause delusions, loss of consciousness, and even death when taken in excessive amounts. And taking these drugs with alcohol can make the effects even more dangerous.

Parents can help stop abuse of these products with three steps:

1. Safeguard your prescription AND OTC drugs, especially those containing DXM. Monitor quantities and control access. Ask friends and family to do the same.

2. Properly conceal and dispose of old or unused meds in the trash.

3. Talk to your kids about the dangers. Set clear rules for teens about all drug and alcohol use, including never taking medicine without permission and always following proper dosages. And be a good ROLE MODEL when it comes to these issues.

Watch for warning signs your teen is using, such as empty bottles or packages and behavior changes, such as mood swings, or changes in appetite or sleep habits.

***Slang Terms Teens are using to describe cough and cold remedies:

DXM                            SKITTLES

ROBO                          TRIPLE C

SYRUP                         RED DEVILS

TUSSIN

DEX

You can help keep your teen safe and drug-free. To learn more about OTC drug abuse and what you can do to stop it, visit: www.TheAntiDrug.com or call 1-800-788-2800

PARENTS. THE ANTI-DRUG.

(1)2007 Monitoring the Future Study, U. of Michigan, Nat’l Instit. On Drug Abuse

Office of Nat’l Drug Control Policy

Little Things Mean a Lot

His name was Mr. Lowry. He had red hair, cut in the typical flat-top style of the 1960s. The severe haircut could not hide his kind nature or his twinkling blue eyes. Nevertheless, I was a little afraid of him. I was a second grader and he was the principal of Ligonier Elementary School. Even our teachers, who seemed fearless to me, were deferential to him. He was a Very Important Person.

I had been struggling with math. My teacher spent extra time working with me, and had assigned extra work for me to take home. My mother made sure I got it done. Today the teacher was going to pass back our most recent math test.

Suddenly Mr. Lowry entered the room, with a small smile on his face. My teacher smiled back at him. It was as though they shared a delightful secret. He joined my teacher at the front of the room and took one of the test papers from her. I realized his blue eyes were twinkling at…me!

“Mary, would you come to the front of the class, please?” The other students began to giggle. I was quiet and awkward, sometimes the subject of cruel jokes. Mr. Lowry shot the class a look that silenced them.

As I stepped to the front of the classroom, Mr. Lowry spoke. “Mary has been working really hard on her math problems. She’s been doing extra work and giving her best. I wanted to come here today, Mary, to give you your last test because your grade improved a LOT!”

He showed the class my test paper. At the top was a big red “A.”

Mr. Lowry and my teacher began to clap, and the other students joined them. And then, the principal of Ligonier Elementary School, a Very Important Person, leaned down and hugged me. He whispered, “I am so proud of you.”

I beamed all the way back to my seat. The rest of the day I was in a delighted haze.

I was seven years old when Mr. Lowry hugged me and told me he was proud of me. That was almost fifty years ago, and I can remember it like it happened yesterday. I’m sure he was a busy man. There always seemed to be a line of students and teachers waiting to see him. No doubt he had a ton of paperwork waiting and phone calls to return to other Very Important People. But Mr. Lowry took five minutes to encourage a child, and it has made a huge difference in my life to this very day.

July is national “Make a Difference to Children” Month. It’s a time to remember the adults who made a difference for us when we were young. It’s also a time to consider what we can do to make a difference for the children around us. Sometimes even little things can make a big impact. Here are some ideas:

• Commit to do one special thing with a child in July—make some kind of positive difference for that child.

• Support an organization that focuses on children—there are many to choose from.

• Communicate with your elected leaders to make children a priority in policy and budget issues they address.

I doubt that Mr. Lowry felt like a Very Important Person. But he was to my classmates and me. You are probably a Very Important Person to the children around you. This month—and every month—take some time to make a difference.





Contributed by Mary Armstrong-Smith, PCAIN Community Partners Director

4th of July Safety

With very hot weather and family events, the Fourth of July can be a fun time with great memories. But before your family celebrates, make sure everyone knows about fireworks safety.  Many counties in Indiana have banned the use of fireworks.  To see Fourth of July celebrations in central Indiana for 2012:  http://www.wthr.com/story/18896404/fourth-of-july-community-fireworks-for-2012


If not handled properly, fireworks can cause burn and eye injuries in kids and adults. The best way to protect your family is not to use any fireworks at home — period. Attend public fireworks displays, and leave the lighting to the professionals.

Lighting fireworks at home isn't even legal in many areas, so if you still want to use them, be sure to check with your local police department first. If they're legal where you live, keep these safety tips in mind:

Kids should never play with fireworks. Things like firecrackers, rockets, and sparklers are just too dangerous. If you give kids sparklers, make sure they keep them outside and away from the face, clothing, and hair. Sparklers can reach 1,800° Fahrenheit (982° Celsius) — hot enough to melt gold.

Buy only legal fireworks (legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer's name and directions; illegal ones are unlabeled), and store them in a cool, dry place. Illegal fireworks usually go by the names M-80, M100, blockbuster, or quarter-pounder. These explosives were banned in 1966, but still account for many fireworks injuries.

Never try to make your own fireworks.

Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of accidents.

Steer clear of others — fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction. Never throw or point fireworks at someone, even in jest.

Don't hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting. Wear some sort of eye protection, and avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket — the friction could set them off.

Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush and leaves and flammable substances. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that local fire departments respond to more 50,000 fires caused by fireworks each year.

Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers), and never relight a dud.

Don't allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.

Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can.

Think about your pet. Animals have sensitive ears and can be extremely frightened or stressed on the Fourth of July. Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they'll run loose or get injured.

If a child is injured by fireworks, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. If an eye injury occurs, don't allow your child to touch or rub it, as this may cause even more damage. Also, don't flush the eye out with water or attempt to put any ointment on it. Instead, cut out the bottom of a paper cup, place it around the eye, and immediately seek medical attention — your child's eyesight may depend on it. If it's a burn, remove clothing from the burned area and run cool, not cold, water over the burn (do not use ice). Call your doctor immediately.

Fireworks are meant to be enjoyed, but you'll enjoy them much more knowing your family is safe. Take extra precautions this Fourth of July and your holiday will be a blast!

Taken from: http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/outdoor/fireworks.html

July is National Cell Phone Courtesy Month

Did you know…

 

• At least 91% of Americans own cell phones  
• There are more than 285 million cell phones in use in the U.S.  
• 3 out of 10 people prefer cell phones over landlines

While a majority of us experience a range of rude behaviors on a daily basis, the one transgression that seems to occur most often is accompanied by a ring tone: People talking on cell phones, in public places, in a loud or annoying manner.

  If you agree that cell phone rudeness is on the rise and would like to help eradicate this growing epidemic, please spread the word about National Cell Phone Courtesy Month. Here are some helpful tips to share.

 

1. Be all there. When you’re in a meeting, performance, courtroom or other busy area, let calls go to voicemail to avoid a disruption. In some instances, it’s best to put your phone on silent mode.
2. Keep it private. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid discussing private or confidential information in public. You never know who may be in hearing range.
3. Keep your cool. Don’t display anger during a public call. Conversations that are likely to be emotional should be held where they will not embarrass or intrude on others.
4. Learn to vibe. Use your wireless phone’s silent or vibration settings in public places such as business meetings, religious services, schools, restaurants, theaters or sporting events so that you don’t disrupt your surroundings.
5. Avoid “cell yell.” Remember to use your regular conversational tone when speaking on your wireless phone. People tend to speak more loudly than normal and often don’t recognize how distracting they can be to others.
6. Follow the rules. Some places, such as some restaurants or courtrooms, restrict or prohibit the use of mobile phones, so adhere to posted signs and instructions. Some jurisdictions may also restrict mobile phone use in public places.
7. Excuse yourself. If you’re expecting a call that can’t be postponed, alert your companions ahead of time and excuse yourself when the call comes in; the people you’re with should take precedence over calls you want to make or receive.
8. Send a text message when you want to send a quick message. But remember not to text while having a conversation with another person. It’s important to give others, especially clients and customers, your full, undivided attention.
9. Watch and listen discreetly. Multimedia applications such as streaming video and music are great ways to stay informed and access the latest entertainment. Use earphones to avoid distracting others in public areas.
10. Don’t text and drive. Don’t put your life or those of others at risk. Pull over if you absolutely must send a message or wait until you reach your destination.

 

Borrowed from JacquelineWhitmore's Blog.

Age-Appropriate Chores for Children

How can you know what to expect of your child at what age? If you ask your child to put the forks on the left side of the plate, does she know what you mean and is she physically able to do it? If not, take a step back. Maybe you'll simply start by having your child get the silverware to the table. The point is, he says, you want an immediate payoff for you and your child.

Dividing household chores and getting them done isn't always easy, but there are ways to make chores feel a little less like work. Most parents, however, underestimate what their kids are able to do. "Keep in mind that a child who has mastered a complicated computer game can easily run the dishwasher." In general preschoolers can handle one or two simple one-step or two-step jobs. Older children can manage more.

And, as your children grow up and get busy, don't let them off the hook. Tell them, "I hope you get so quick with your chores that they don't interfere with everything else."

Here is a sample of chores provided that will work for many children in these age groups.

Chores for children ages 2 to 3

• Put toys away.

• Fill pet's food dish.

• Put clothes in hamper.

• Wipe up spills.

• Dust.

• Pile books and magazines.



Chores for children ages 4 to 5

Any of the above chores, plus:

• Make own bed.

• Empty wastebaskets.

• Bring in mail or newspaper.

• Clear table.

• Pull weeds.

• Use hand-held vacuum to pick up crumbs.

• Water flowers.

• Unload utensils from dishwasher.

• Wash plastic dishes at sink.

• Fix bowl of cereal.



Chores for children ages 6 to 7

Any of the above chores, plus:

• Sort laundry.

• Sweep floors.

• Set and clear table.

• Help make and pack lunch.

• Weed and rake leaves.

• Keep bedroom tidy.

• Pour own drinks.

• Answer telephone.



Chores for children ages 8 to 9

Any of the above chores, plus:

• Load dishwasher.

• Put away groceries.

• Vacuum.

• Help make dinner.

• Make own snacks.

• Wash table after meals.

• Put away own laundry.

• Sew buttons.

• Make own breakfast.

• Peel vegetables.

• Cook simple foods, such as toast.

• Mop floor.

• Take pet for a walk.



Chores for children ages 10 and older

Any of the above chores, plus:

• Unload dishwasher.

• Fold laundry.

• Clean bathroom.

• Wash windows.

• Wash car.

• Cook simple meal with supervision.

• Iron clothes.

• Do laundry.

• Baby-sit younger siblings (with adult in the home).

• Mow lawn.

• Clean kitchen.

• Clean oven.

• Change bed.

• Make cookies or cake from a mix.





Taken from www.webmd.com/parenting

America Kids Sports Month!

June is Sports America Kids Month! The beginning of summer is the perfect time to think about how good sports are for kids. Is your child involved in a sport? The most important thing to remember about kids and sports is that kids aren't in it to win! Sure, winning is exciting, but playing on a team that loses all the time is a lot more fun than sitting on the bench for a team that always wins! If a child is involved in a sport that they enjoy, the benefits are enormous! Sports offer kids physical fitness, increased confidence and self-esteem, self-discipline, teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership, coordination, and a lot more! As they get older it stops being fun when they are pressured to be superstars. Being scolded by their parents or coaches for less-than-perfect performance takes all the joy out of playing. And, with all that pressure, children do not continue to gain the self-esteem, confidence, and other great qualities that they did when they were just playing for fun! Here are some keys to keeping the fun in sports, no matter what age your children are. 1. With younger kids, around preschool age, don't bother trying to get them to learn all the rules of the sport. Concentrate on the physical skills, like kicking, throwing, running, etc. Kids who are just learning to count don't need to worry about how to keep score! As kids get older, they can begin to learn the actual rules of the game. 2. Don't pressure kids to perfect their skills at sports. It can be fun for kids to learn and try a new move, like a corner kick or a tricky pitch... but they don't need to do it perfectly. 3. Outside of organized sports, encourage kids to play impromptu sports games with their friends afterschool or on the weekends. 4. If a child gets injured while playing a sport, don't pressure them to keep on playing while they're still in pain. They're just kids, not professional athletes! 5. Praise your kids for their good effort. You don't have to go overboard and tell your kid he's the best player on the team! But little praises like, "Nice swing," or "way to hustle," can go a long way! 6. Kids have to sit and pay attention all day at school. Don't get angry with them for daydreaming in the outfield! 7. After a game, ask kids questions like, "What was the best part of the game?" and "Did you have fun?" 8. Encourage kids to try out a variety of sports, and let them decide which ones they like. Little Tommy's dad or big brother might have been the best players on their baseball teams, but if Tommy is interested in football, hockey, or gymnastics, then let him do those things instead! So lets all be good sports, and let our kids have fun!

Potty Awareness Month

Potty training is a major milestone. Get the facts on timing, technique and handling the inevitable accidents. Potty training is a big step for kids and parents alike. The secret to success? Patience — perhaps more patience than you ever imagined. Is it time? Potty-training success hinges on physical and emotional readiness, not a specific age. Many kids show interest in potty training by age 2, but others might not be ready until age 2 1/2 or even older — and there's no rush. If you start potty training too early, it might take longer to train your child. Is your child ready? Ask yourself these questions: • Does your child seem interested in the potty chair or toilet, or in wearing underwear? • Can your child understand and follow basic directions? • Does your child tell you through words, facial expressions or posture when he or she needs to go? • Does your child stay dry for periods of two hours or longer during the day? • Does your child complain about wet or dirty diapers? • Can your child pull down his or her pants and pull them up again? • Can your child sit on and rise from a potty chair? If you answered mostly yes, your child might be ready for potty training. If you answered mostly no, you might want to wait awhile — especially if your child has recently faced or is about to face a major change, such as a move or the arrival of a new sibling. A toddler who opposes potty training today might be open to the idea in a few months. Taken from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/potty-training