_Recommendation #3_:
Be knowledgeable about drugs and signs of drug use. When symptoms are
observed, respond promptly.
Parents are in the best position to recognize early signs of drug use
in their children. In order to prepare themselves, they should:
. Learn about the extent of the drug problem in their community and
in their children's schools.
. Be able to recognize signs of drug use.
. Meet with parents of their children's friends or classmates about
the drug problem at their school. Establish a means of sharing
information to determine which children are using drugs and who
is supplying them.
Parents who suspect their children are using drugs often must deal with
their own emotions of anger, resentment, and guilt. Frequently they
deny the evidence and postpone confronting their children. Yet the
earlier a drug problem is found and faced, the less difficult it is to
overcome. If parents suspect their children are using drugs, they
should:
. Devise a plan of action. Consult with school officials and other
parents.
. Discuss their suspicions with their children in a calm, objective
manner. Do not confront a child while he is under the influence
of drugs.
. Impose disciplinary measures that help remove the child from those
circumstances where drug use might occur.
. Seek advice and assistance from drug treatment professionals and
from a parent group. (For further information, consult the
resources section, pages 59-73.)
_WHAT SCHOOLS CAN DO_