A private non-profit organization serving the people of Clayton County, Iowa.
 

Substance Abuse Services
for Clayton County, Inc.
431 High Street NE
PO Box 970
Elkader, Iowa 52043-0970

Email:  
sascc@sas4cc.com

Phone: 
563-245-1546

FAX:    
563-245-1612

Parents of the Senior Class   

“You’re not done yet”

Parenting is ongoing.  It is especially important when children graduate and begin making life decisions,   including substance use.  Results from the 2003 National Survey on Drug Use and Health show that           25 percent of Americans age 17 had reported binge drinking (i.e. five or more drinks on the same occasion).  By age 21, the percentage of binge drinkers increased to 48 percent.  In addition, the 2005 Iowa Youth   Survey, 32% of Clayton County 11th graders reported binge drinking on one or more days during the      previous month.  College is an environment for even more potentially risky drinking decisions.

Research shows teenagers whose parents talk with them versus talk at them may be less at risk to engage in harmful behavior involving alcohol.  The enclosed brochure can assist you in conversation with your son or daughter even if they do not choose to attend college.  Remember, your child needs you now just as much as ever.  Reinforce your expectations for his/her behavior, set a good example for him/her to follow and keep talking with your child.

Graduation celebrations can also pose great risks for teens and alcohol.  Please be aware of underage    drinking and do your part to keep kids safe and alcohol-free.  Here are some simple tips:

Make sure your graduate has a plan              Take stock of the alcohol in your home.
for the day and that you know what it is

Communicate with other parents.                   Encourage seatbelt use-the best accessory!

Know your graduate’s mode of                     Stay up for the graduate’s return home.
transportation.

Thank you for taking the time to care about your child.  Please contact us with any questions, comments or concerns you may have regarding substance use and abuse issues. Remember to Celebrate with Care.