SAFEHOMES

...is a parent networking campaign based on the belief that to prevent a child from using drugs, we need to create an atmosphere where drug use is not acceptable. Parents’ benefit from the support of the SAFEHOMES network by helping to eliminate the dilemma created by parents who do not set the same limits on their children’s behavior.

SAFEHOMES parents sign pledges to provide adult supervision for all children and teens visiting their homes and do not allow youth under the legal drinking age to consume alcohol in their home or on their property.

Approximately 85% of students in grades 5, 8 and 10 were surveyed in the spring of 2002 using the ADAS instrument. The ADAS is the product of 15 years of university-based research. The Nanuet School District has used it four times since 1994. The ADAS provides us with a multi-year comparison report, which helps us look at the trends of use:

• Since 1994 Nanuet’s 5th graders have reported small percentages of ATOD (Alcohol, Tobacco or Drug) use however, 22% report having “ever tried” alcohol. Less than 1% of these students reported drinking alone or with friends when parents were not there. 98% of all 5th grade students have no intentions regarding future substance use.

• By 8th grade 40% have tried alcohol within the past year and 10% have been drunk. 11% have tried marijuana and 8% have tried inhalants. All levels of use fall below the national average.

• By 10th grade 84% have tried alcohol and 58% are regular users. 62% get drunk regularly and 48% reported “blacking out”. 61% have tried marijuana and 35% use it regularly. Most level of use is higher than the national averages for “ever tried”. 18% have hurt themselves, 27% of students report using drugs while driving around. 35% are using drugs at home without their parents’ knowledge.

Family communication about substance abuse use is a protective factor against use. Although most Nanuet families are against substance use, they may need help in communicating more with their children about substance use and abuse. A considerable number of students do not feel that their families have talked to them about the dangers of substance use and abuse. Effective family communication about substance use must begin before children begin experimenting. Such inter-family communication is proven to be a strong defense against substance use.