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 Protecting Children

Alcoholism
Babysitting Safety Guidelines
Developing Good Communications
Drug and Alcohol Awareness
Drug Use
Indicators of Physical Abuse
National Child Identification Program
Observing Physical and Behavioral Signs
Protecting Children
Sexual Abuse Safety Rules
Signs of Child Neglect
Teen Dating Violence


 

 

 

 

Drug and Alcohol Awareness 

Parents are the best deterrent to smoking, alcohol or drug use.  Start at an early age and TALK-TALK-TALK!  Let them know you care.

Has a child become moody, short tempered and hostile?  Does this child seem "spaced out", or is suddenly failing courses and hanging out with kids you don't know or trust? ...Don't loose your child to drugs!  Here are some additional signs of drug or alcohol use:

  • Increased interest in alcohol or other drugs; talking about or even showing up with them.
  • Owning drug paraphernalia such as hypodermic needles, or rolling papers.
  • Having large amounts of cash or always being low on cash.
  • Drastic increase or decrease in weight.
  • Slurred or incoherent speech.
  • Withdrawal from others, frequent lying, depression or paranoia.

When children display these symptoms, it is not a guarantee that they are into drugs or alcohol.  You need to compare current with past behavior.  But, it's better to say something and be wrong than to say nothing and later wish you had.  Additional information and support is available at:

  • California Youth Crisis Hotline: 800-843-5200
  • Alcoholics Anonymous: 408-374-8511
  • Narcotics Anonymous:  408-998-4200
  • Thunder Road- Teen Drug Treatment: 408-243-6984 
  • National Alcohol/Drug Helpline: 800-662-4357

Further information:

Teens Drinking