Our Maine Street's Aroostook Issue 16 : Spring 2013 | Page 47

The following are some typical questions:
Q: What do I do if I suspect my child is drinking or
using another drug?
A: As a teenager, I know that we hate to be accused
of things that aren’t true. We respect a direct, honest
approach, so do just that. If you suspect your child
is drinking, it may work best if you just come out
and ask them directly. Don’t condemn them or be
judgemental -- get to the facts of the matter.Talk
to your child. Set limits and rules. Have an open
conversation about abusing substances with your
child. If you know your child has tried alcohol,
address it directly and positively. Turn it into a
learning experience. Use it as an opportunity to help
them learn from mistakes and make better decisions
in the future.
Q: Who do I report an underage drinking party to?
A: Please contact your local police station or call
1-800-924-2261.
Q: I think my child’s friends are a bad influence on
him/her. What can I do as a parent to prevent my
child from making bad choices and follow his/her
friends?
A: Okay, so this child most likely comes to your
house with your child talking about the wild party
that they went to this weekend, and how they got
totally wasted. Your child laughs along and acts like
there is nothing wrong with this and assures you
that the person isn’t as bad as they seem. First, you
need to make your child feel like you trust them,
and you should be able to a little unless you already
have reason not to. You also need to make sure that
they trust you. Ask your child why they are friends
with this person. Make sure you know the details
before calling them out. It’s hard to tell your kid that
they can’t hang out with their friends, so just make
sure that they are cautious. You should also tell your
child that you think that their friend is not a good
influence, it’s good to be honest with them and tell
them how you feel. Just be sure to stay optimistic
about this friend, because they might surprise you
with how loyal a true friend can be.

394 Main Street
Presque Isle, ME.
207-764-1255

Specialty Yarn,
Fine Wines,
Imported Beer,
Specialty Foods,
Unique Gis
and Gi Baskets

Morning Star
Art & Framing
Art Supplies, Maine Made Gifts
422 Main Street
Presque Isle, ME 04769
Sun: 11a-6p, M-: 10a-6p, Fri: 10a-4p
[phone]

Hand Me Down Antiques
Bernie & Eva Kirk
Owners

Shannon Hill
Manager

www.handmedown-antiques.com

477 Main Street
Tel: [phone]
Presque Isle, Me 04769 Cel: 207.551.5100

Morning Star
Art & Framing

Art Supplies & Maine Made Gifts
422 Main Street
Presque Isle, ME 04769
207.764.1810

SPRING 2013 47